Looking for a fresh and flavorful dish that will impress your family and friends? Dive into the delightful world of Caesar Pasta Salad with Grilled Salmon or Chicken! This vibrant Italian-inspired recipe combines the classic Caesar salad with hearty rotini pasta, tender grilled protein, and a medley of fresh ingredients. Perfect for a light lunch, a potluck, or a summer gathering, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with taste. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a meal that’s sure to become a favorite at your table. Ready to tantalize your taste buds? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 2 grilled salmon fillets or chicken breasts
- 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Croutons for topping
Instructions
- Cook rotini pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking process and cool pasta quickly.
- Prepare protein by seasoning salmon fillets or chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F for salmon or 165°F for chicken. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into bite-sized pieces.
- Wash and chop romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Halve cherry tomatoes and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, grilled protein, chopped romaine, cherry tomatoes, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Drizzle Caesar dressing over the salad and gently toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Refrigerate salad for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld together if desired.
- Before serving, top with crispy croutons for added crunch. Serve chilled and enjoy.
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: To achieve the ideal texture, cook the rotini pasta until it’s al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite. Rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and keep it from becoming mushy.
- Grill Like a Pro: For perfectly grilled salmon or chicken, make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat. This helps achieve a nice sear while keeping the inside juicy. Don’t forget to let your protein rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain its moisture.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh romaine lettuce and ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor. The crunch of the lettuce and the sweetness of the tomatoes elevate the salad's taste and texture.
- Toss with Care: When combining the ingredients, gently toss them to avoid breaking up the pasta and protein. This ensures a beautiful presentation and a balanced flavor in every bite.
- Chill for Flavor: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes lets the flavors meld together beautifully. It’s a simple step that can make a big difference in taste.
- Crispy Croutons: For an extra crunch, add croutons just before serving. This keeps them crispy and prevents them from becoming soggy in the dressing.
- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients, such as olives, avocados, or even a sprinkle of capers, to make this salad your own.Enjoy creating this delicious Caesar Pasta Salad that’s sure to impress!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
