Creamy Caprese Caesar Pasta Salad brings together two classics in one refreshing, flavor-packed dish. With tender rotini tossed in creamy Caesar dressing, juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, every bite tastes like a perfect mix of comfort and freshness. Unlike heavy pasta salads, this one stays light yet satisfying thanks to the balance of greens like spinach and crisp romaine.
What makes this salad truly special is how effortlessly it blends the bold, garlicky flavors of Caesar with the bright, summery touch of Caprese. Italians have loved the Caprese combination for centuries, celebrating the red, white, and green of their flag with simple, fresh ingredients. Pairing that tradition with Caesar’s creamy depth creates a modern twist that’s both familiar and exciting.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, packing a picnic, or prepping lunches ahead, this pasta salad is versatile and crowd-pleasing. It’s the kind of dish that disappears fast, so double the recipe if you’re feeding a group!
Recipe Yield: 6 servings
INGREDIENTS
12 oz rotini pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine), halved
1 cup baby spinach leaves
1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
½ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
2 tbsp pine nuts, toasted
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 cup Caesar dressing (creamy style)
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Cook the pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini and cook until al dente. Drain, drizzle with olive oil, and let cool slightly.
2. Prepare the vegetables:
While pasta cools, halve the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella, chop romaine, and tear basil leaves. This keeps everything fresh and bite-sized.
3. Toss the pasta:
In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta with Caesar dressing. Stir gently until each piece is coated.
4. Add the greens:
Fold in spinach, romaine, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Mix until well combined but not over-mixed.
5. Finish and serve:
Sprinkle Parmesan and toasted pine nuts on top. Season with salt and pepper, toss once more, and serve immediately or chilled.
Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe
- Balance the Dressing: Start with ¾ cup Caesar dressing and add more if needed, so the salad stays creamy but not heavy.
- Toast for Flavor: Lightly toast pine nuts in a dry skillet for 2–3 minutes. This adds depth and nutty crunch.
- Make Ahead Friendly: For meal prep, keep pasta and dressing mixed, but add greens, basil, and nuts just before serving to keep them fresh.
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