Description
A delicious, creamy pasta salad featuring Caesar dressing, fresh avocado, and crisp vegetables.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rotini or penne pasta
- 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 ripe avocado, cubed
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup croutons (optional)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1–2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2–3 tbsp water (to thin dressing if needed)
Instructions
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. Whisk together mayonnaise, Parmesan, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic. Add salt and pepper to taste. Thin with water if needed.
3. Chop romaine lettuce, halve cherry tomatoes, slice red onion, and cube avocado. Toss avocado lightly with lemon juice to prevent browning.
4. Combine pasta, romaine, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and avocado in a large mixing bowl. Pour in Caesar dressing and toss gently.
5. Add optional grilled chicken, shrimp, or bacon if desired.
6. Garnish with extra Parmesan, cracked black pepper, fresh herbs, and croutons. Serve immediately or chill before serving.
Notes
This pasta salad is best served fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Keep avocado separate until just before serving for best freshness and color.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 15mg