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 favorite at our family gatherings because of its bright flavors and simple 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: basil 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 This dish often brings the family together as everyone enjoys its fresh flavors and satisfying texture.
Notes
For extra protein add grilled chicken or chickpeas. Substitute ditalini with small shells or elbow macaroni if preferred. For a lighter version use light Caesar dressing or Greek yogurt-based Caesar. Try arugula instead of spinach for a peppery twist. A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with this salad.
Required Tools
Large pot, colander, large mixing bowl, whisk, knife and cutting board.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 410 calories, 18 g total fat, 50 g carbohydrates, 13 g protein.
Save This salad is perfect for meal prep and tastes better after chilling for a short time.
Cooking Questions
- → Can I substitute ditalini with another pasta?
Yes, small shell or elbow macaroni work well as alternatives, holding the dressing and ingredients nicely.
- → How can I make this dish protein-rich?
Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein while maintaining the salad's freshness.
- → What are good salad greens alternatives?
Arugula can replace baby spinach for a peppery twist, adding a different flavor dimension.
- → Can I prepare the salad ahead of time?
Yes, chilling the salad for 30 minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing taste.
- → What wine pairs well with this salad?
A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy and fresh ingredients perfectly.