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 is a favorite at our summer gatherings, always disappearing quickly thanks to its refreshing flavors and satisfying textures.
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, 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 Sharing this salad with family always brings smiles, especially as everyone enjoys the bright and savory flavors together.
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. Wine pairing: A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements this salad.
Required Tools
Large pot , Colander , Large mixing bowl , Whisk , Knife and cutting board
Nutritional Information
Calories 410 , Total Fat 18 g , Carbohydrates 50 g , Protein 13 g
Save This Caesar Pesto Ditalini Salad makes for a quick, tasty meal perfect for any season.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, small shells or elbow macaroni work well as substitutes for ditalini pasta, maintaining a similar texture and bite.
- → How can I make this salad vegan-friendly?
Replace Parmesan with a plant-based cheese alternative and use a vegan Caesar dressing to keep the flavors while adjusting for dietary preferences.
- → What is the best way to prepare the pasta?
Cook the ditalini in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool for tossing.
- → Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes, the salad can be chilled for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld, but it’s best served fresh to preserve crispness of vegetables.
- → What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the bright and creamy flavors, enhancing the overall dining experience.
- → Are toasted pine nuts necessary?
While optional, toasted pine nuts add a delightful crunch and nutty aroma that enhances the salad's texture and richness.