If you adore the classic flavors of Caesar salad but crave a heartier, more filling dish, you are in for a treat with this Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe. Combining crisp romaine lettuce, al dente pasta, and a luscious homemade Greek yogurt-based Caesar dressing, this salad strikes the perfect balance between creamy, crunchy, and savory. The addition of crunchy sourdough croutons and two types of parmesan cheese elevates every bite, making it an unforgettable dish that serves well as a main or a side. Whether it’s a summer cookout or a light lunch at home, this recipe brings all the flavors you love with a fresh pasta twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl filled with three main layers: at the bottom and sides, fresh green lettuce leaves with cream dressing showing light shiny texture; in the middle, light yellow spiral pasta piled lightly; on top, a generous dusting of white grated cheese. A pair of silver tongs rests partly inside the bowl, angled diagonally. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, with a small glass container of creamy light-colored sauce nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe is thoughtfully chosen to create layers of flavor and texture. From the tangy Greek yogurt dressing to the crispy sourdough croutons, each element plays a crucial role in making this dish shine.

Sourdough bread slices: Torn into pieces and toasted for crispy, flavorful croutons that provide a satisfying crunch.
Unsalted butter: Used to toast the bread pieces, imparting a rich, buttery flavor to the croutons.
Romaine lettuce: Offers a fresh, crisp base with a slightly bitter bite that’s perfect for Caesar dressings.
Kosher salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together and enhance each ingredient.
Finely grated Parmesan cheese: Incorporated into the salad for a deep, savory umami kick that melts into the dressing.
Shaved Parmesan cheese: Used as a garnish for a striking visual contrast and bursts of cheesy goodness.
Cooked pasta: This hearty element transforms the salad into a substantial meal—choose your favorite short pasta shape.
Garlic cloves (minced): The aromatic backbone of the dressing, adding a punch of flavor.
Greek yogurt: Creates a creamy and tangy dressing base, making this Caesar lighter and healthier without sacrificing richness.
Parmesan cheese (for dressing): Adds extra cheesiness and depth to the dressing’s flavor profile.
Dijon mustard: Balances the dressing with a hint of sharpness and complexity.
Red wine vinegar: Brings acidity that brightens the dressing and complements the lettuce.
Anchovy paste: The secret to authentic Caesar dressing flavor, contributing umami and a savory punch.
Lemon juice: Fresh juice adds a vibrant and zesty finish to the dressing.
Olive oil: Emulsifies the dressing, adding silkiness and depth.

How to Make Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe

Step 1: Make the Sourdough Croutons

Start by heating unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the torn sourdough pieces with a pinch of kosher salt, cooking and stirring frequently. In just minutes, they transform into golden, crisp croutons bursting with buttery flavor that add an irresistible crunch to your salad.

Step 2: Prepare the Caesar Dressing

In a blender or food processor, combine minced garlic, Greek yogurt, parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, anchovy paste, fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth, then slowly drizzle in olive oil while blending to create a creamy, luscious dressing. This tangy, savory dressing is lighter than traditional Caesar dressing but still packs all the familiar flavors.

Step 3: Toss the Romaine and Pasta

In a large bowl, toss the chopped romaine lettuce with salt and pepper, then drizzle with several tablespoons of the Caesar dressing along with the finely grated Parmesan cheese. Add in the cooked pasta and toss again, making sure every forkful will be perfectly coated with that creamy dressing.

Step 4: Assemble and Garnish

Top your salad with the crisp sourdough croutons and delicately shaved Parmesan cheese. Feel free to serve with extra dressing and Parmesan on the side, so everyone can add more cheesy, creamy goodness if they want.

How to Serve Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe

The dish shows three main layers on a white plate set on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer consists of small, pale yellow curly pasta with a slightly soft texture, spread evenly across the plate. Above the pasta are bright green and light yellow romaine lettuce leaves, fresh and crisp, mixed well with the pasta. The top layer has scattered small, golden-brown crunchy bread pieces and thin, pale cream-colored shavings of cheese spread throughout, adding texture and contrast. A silver fork rests on the right side of the plate, partially tucked under the food. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Freshly shaved Parmesan adds luxurious texture and flavor, while the golden croutons provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft pasta and crisp greens. For an extra flourish, sprinkle cracked black pepper or a lemon wedge to brighten up the flavors right before serving.

Side Dishes

This Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe stands wonderfully alongside grilled chicken, seared salmon, or even roasted chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Light, healthy, and versatile, it complements a variety of proteins and can balance a heavier meal or serve as a well-rounded lunch on its own.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the bowl by layering this pasta salad in clear glass jars for a fun picnic or grab-and-go meal. Alternatively, serve it atop a bed of additional romaine on a platter for a classic presentation that’s perfect for potlucks or family dinners.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep the croutons separate if possible to maintain their crispness, adding them just before serving again.

Freezing

Because of the fresh lettuce and creamy dressing, freezing Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe is not recommended. The greens will become soggy and the texture will suffer, so stick to enjoying it fresh or within a couple of days.

Reheating

If your pasta has absorbed too much dressing and cooled, you can gently warm the leftover salad without the lettuce and croutons in a microwave or on the stove to avoid wilting the greens. Then mix with fresh lettuce and croutons for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or bow tie work best as they hold the dressing well, but feel free to use whatever you prefer or have on hand.

Is anchovy paste necessary?

While anchovy paste adds signature umami flavor to Caesar dressing, you can omit it or substitute with Worcestershire sauce if desired. Just note the flavor will be slightly different.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes! The yogurt-based dressing can be prepared up to 3 to 4 days in advance and stored in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using as it may separate slightly.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Simply skip the anchovy paste or replace it with a vegetarian-friendly alternative like miso paste for a savory depth that suits a vegetarian diet.

What salad greens work best?

Romaine is ideal for its crisp texture and classic Caesar pairing, but you could also mix in baby kale or romaine hearts for added texture and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

This Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a celebration in every bite. Its comforting combination of creamy dressing, crunchy croutons, cheesy Parmesan, and fresh veggies will quickly make it a staple in your recipe rotation. So go ahead, gather these simple ingredients, and enjoy creating a flavorful salad that’s just as delightful on a casual weekday lunch as it is on a weekend feast. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe