Save A vibrant pasta salad that combines the creamy tang of Caesar dressing with fresh basil pesto, tossed with ditalini pasta, crisp vegetables, and savory Parmesan for a flavorful, crowd-pleasing dish.
This salad quickly became a staple at my family gatherings due to its freshness and easy preparation.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 250 g ditalini pasta, 1 tsp salt (for pasta water)
- Pesto Caesar Dressing: 3 tbsp basil pesto (store-bought or homemade), 3 tbsp Caesar dressing, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 small garlic clove minced, 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese, freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Salad Components: 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved, 1 cup baby spinach roughly chopped, 1/2 cup cucumber diced, 1/4 cup red onion finely chopped, 1/4 cup black olives sliced (optional), 1/4 cup Parmesan shavings, 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add ditalini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Step 2:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together pesto Caesar dressing ingredients including pesto, Caesar dressing, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, and a pinch of black pepper.
- Step 3:
- Add the cooled ditalini pasta to the bowl. Toss to coat evenly with the dressing.
- Step 4:
- Gently fold in cherry tomatoes, baby spinach, cucumber, red onion, and black olives if using.
- Step 5:
- Transfer to a serving platter or bowl. Top with Parmesan shavings and toasted pine nuts if desired.
- Step 6:
- Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
Save My family loves gathering around this zesty salad during warm evenings for casual and refreshing meals.
Wine Pairing
A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements this salad well enhancing the fresh flavors.
Required Tools
Large pot, Colander, Large mixing bowl, Whisk, Knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains Milk (Parmesan Caesar dressing), Eggs (Caesar dressing possibly pesto), Tree nuts (pesto pine nuts), Fish (Caesar dressing may contain anchovies), Gluten (pasta)
Save This Caesar Pesto Ditalini Salad is perfect for a quick healthy meal packed with vibrant flavors.
Recipe Help & Answers
- → What type of pasta is best for this salad?
Small shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells work well, as they hold the dressing and mix easily with the vegetables.
- → Can I use store-bought pesto and dressing?
Yes, store-bought basil pesto and Caesar dressing can be used for convenience, but homemade versions enhance freshness and flavor.
- → How can I make this salad vegetarian?
Use vegetarian Parmesan and ensure the Caesar dressing is free from anchovies or substitute with a yogurt-based dressing.
- → Are there any suggested add-ins for extra protein?
Grilled chicken or cooked chickpeas can be added to boost protein content and make the dish more filling.
- → What wine pairs well with this salad?
A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy and fresh flavors nicely.
- → Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, it can be chilled for about 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.