Ben’s parents live on a lake and, being the dutiful son and daughter-in-law that we are, we mooch off of their prime location as many warm weekends as we can. Through the years, weekends on the lake have become one of my most valuable recipe testing grounds (e.g. this BLT Pasta Salad). I slide my dish onto the table, then silently sit back and observe how the other guests react. Second helpings, recipe requests, and the overall amount of leftovers (goal = none) each contribute to whether or not I decide if the recipe is a keeper (this Italian Pasta Salad was another recent winner). Potluck salads, like 7 Layer Salad, often create a frenzy. This tasty chicken Caesar pasta salad with its flavor combination of ingredients and pleasing contrast of textures? OFF THE CHARTS!
How Do You Make Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad?
This crowd-approved side combines the key ingredients of chicken caesar salad—juicy chicken, crunchy greens, crispy croutons, salty Parmesan, and creamy caesar dressing—with whole wheat pasta and fresh cherry tomatoes to create a dish that’s tailor-made for lazy weekend days and quick weeknight dinners.
The Ingredients
Whole Wheat Pasta. ATTENTION whole wheat pasta skeptics! I beg you to try it. It’s my favorite way to sneak extra fiber, iron, and protein into just about any pasta recipe.
Cherry Tomatoes. Bright, delicious little bursts of flavor! Plus, the red color is beautiful in the bowl.Croutons. For a bit of crunch and added texture.Parmesan. Nutty, cheesy, and perfectly suited for Caesar dressing (like in this Chicken Caesar Wrap).Dressing. I love using my delicious Homemade Caesar Dressing!
Directions
How to Make Ahead and Store Caesar Salad
To Store. Chicken caesar pasta salad tastes best the day it is made but will keep in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days and can be made 1 day in advance.To Make Ahead. This salad can be made 1 day in advance.If you know you will be serving leftovers, you can make a little extra dressing and set it aside to toss on the leftovers before serving to keep them from drying out. No extra dressing? Try reviving the leftovers with a big squeeze of lemon juice.
Let the summer sunshine and the days of chicken caesar pasta salad begin!
