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 it balances textures and tastes perfectly.
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 This dish always brings smiles and compliments from our family every time we share it.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or a light main course perfect for summer meals.
Variations
Try arugula instead of spinach for a peppery twist or use light Caesar dressing for a lower-calorie option.
Wine Pairing
A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with this salad enhancing the fresh flavors.
Save This salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s simple to make and full of delightful flavors.
Kitchen Q&A
- → Can I substitute the ditalini pasta with another type?
Yes, small shells or elbow macaroni work well as alternatives, maintaining texture and flavor balance.
- → How can I make the salad vegetarian?
Use vegetarian Parmesan and verify that the Caesar dressing contains no anchovies or animal derivatives.
- → What is the best way to prepare the pesto Caesar dressing?
Whisk together basil pesto, Caesar dressing, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, and black pepper until smooth for even flavor distribution.
- → Is it possible to add protein to this dish?
Grilled chicken or chickpeas can be added for extra protein without overpowering the fresh flavors.
- → What wine pairs best with this pasta salad?
A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the tangy and herbal notes beautifully.