Warm Caesar Pasta Salad

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Servings: 12 servings Difficulty: Intermediate
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A warm, savory twist on the classic Caesar salad featuring creamy pasta, crunchy croutons, and crispy bacon.
Warm Caesar Pasta Salad recipe image
Warm Caesar Pasta Salad recipe image
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Warm Caesar Pasta Salad

Author: chefs-mate Cooking Method: , Cuisine: Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 12 servings Calories: 956

Description

This Warm Caesar Pasta Salad reimagines the classic dish by combining tender penne with a rich, homemade Caesar dressing. The dish features a luxurious blend of lemon, garlic, anchovies, and Parmesan that coats each noodle perfectly. Crispy bacon bits and fresh, crunchy homemade croutons add delightful texture and smoky depth, while coarsely shredded romaine lettuce provides a fresh, crisp contrast. It’s a satisfying, hearty meal that balances warm, comforting pasta with the bright, zesty flavors of traditional Caesar dressing.

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp. Remove from heat, drain on paper towels, and crumble coarsely. Set aside.
  3. Brush both sides of the Italian bread slices with 2 tablespoons of the olive oil. Cut the bread into 1/2-inch cubes. Toss with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and toast for 10 minutes or until golden and crisp. Set aside.
  4. In a food processor, combine the lemon rind, lemon juice, minced garlic, anchovy fillets, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Process until pureed.
  5. With the motor running, slowly pour in the remaining olive oil until emulsified. Blend in half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Set dressing aside.
  6. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne for 8-10 minutes or until tender but firm (al dente). Drain, reserving 1/4 cup of the cooking water.
  7. Return the pasta to the pot over low heat. Toss with the Caesar dressing mixture and enough of the reserved cooking liquid to moisten the pasta well.
  8. Transfer the warm pasta to a large serving bowl. Toss with the homemade croutons, crumbled bacon, and shredded romaine lettuce. Sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 12 servings

Amount Per Serving
Calories 956kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 68g105%
Saturated Fat 19.6g99%
Cholesterol 58mg20%
Sodium 4688mg196%
Total Carbohydrate 36g12%
Dietary Fiber 2g8%
Sugars 4.2g
Protein 48g96%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

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