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Kale Caesar Pasta Salad

Delicious Kale Caesar Pasta Salad for a Fresh Twist

This Kale Caesar Pasta Salad beautifully blends the creaminess of traditional Caesar dressing with the goodness of kale and pasta, making for a refreshing and satisfying dish.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces mezzze rigatoni substitute with gluten-free pasta if desired
For the Crunchy Topping
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs can make your own with leftover bread
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest brightens the flavors of the dressing
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter option
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan shavings use nutritional yeast for vegan alternative
  • 2 fillets anchovy omit for vegetarian version or substitute with Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic (grated) adjust quantity for a lighter garlic touch if preferred
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice freshly squeezed juice is the best
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard yellow mustard works in a pinch
  • to taste salt essential seasoning
  • to taste pepper essential seasoning
For the Greens
  • 4 cups baby kale substitute with spinach for a milder flavor
Optional Protein Additions
  • 2 cups cooked chicken great for hearty meal prep
  • 1 cup crispy chickpeas roast them until crisp

Equipment

  • large pot
  • medium skillet
  • High-speed blender
  • colander
  • Baking Tray
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Kale Caesar Pasta Salad
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the mezze rigatoni and cook until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and spread it out on a baking tray to cool completely.
  2. In a medium skillet over medium heat, combine panko breadcrumbs with lemon zest, grated garlic, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir continuously until golden brown and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes. Transfer to a bowl to cool.
  3. In a blender or food processor, combine mayonnaise, freshly grated Parmesan, anchovies, remaining garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy, about 1 minute.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, drizzle baby kale with remaining olive oil and massage for 2-3 minutes until soft. Add cooled pasta and creamy dressing, mixing thoroughly.
  5. Cover the mixing bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, allowing flavors to meld.
  6. Before serving, gently stir the salad, add Parmesan shavings and half of the crispy breadcrumbs, then mix lightly.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 3000IUVitamin C: 45mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Feel free to customize with your favorite protein additions and greens for a personal touch to your Kale Caesar Pasta Salad.

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