Caesar Pasta Salad Fusion

Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a nutritious family meal, this Caesar Pasta Salad is a delectable fusion of the classic Caesar flavor with the satisfying addition of pasta. Ready in minutes, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Ingredients:

• 12 ounces rotini pasta, cooked al dente and cooled
• 1 cup Caesar dressing
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• 1 cup croutons, preferably homemade
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 1 cup grilled chicken breast, chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions until it is al dente. Once done, rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and let it cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the Caesar dressing and mix well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.
3. Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the pasta and continue to mix.
4. Gently fold in the chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onions.
5. If you are including grilled chicken, now is the time to add in the chopped chicken breast.
6. Toss in the croutons and give the salad a final mix. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Cover and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. If you’re short on time, you can serve it immediately as well.
8. Before serving, give the salad a quick toss. Then garnish with more Parmesan cheese, and optionally, with fresh lemon wedges.

This Caesar Pasta Salad is incredible when fresh but also keeps well in the fridge, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. Enjoy this innovative twist on a timeless classic!