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This hearty Kale Caesar Pasta Salad has become my go-to dish for everything from casual weeknight dinners to potluck gatherings. It combines the beloved flavors of a classic Caesar salad with tender farfalle pasta and sweet roasted tomatoes for a satisfying meal that comes together in just 35 minutes.
I first created this pasta salad when I needed a quick dinner that would please my picky eaters while using up some farmers market kale. The combination was such a hit that it's now requested at nearly every family gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 pound farfalle pasta: Bowtie pasta holds the dressing perfectly in its nooks and crannies
- 1 pint small tomatoes: Grape or cherry tomatoes roast to sweet perfection and add juicy bursts of flavor
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: Use a good quality oil for roasting the tomatoes for best flavor
- 1 bunch kale: Look for fresh bunches with deep green leaves and no wilting for maximum nutrition
- 1 bottle Creamy Caesar Dressing: Store bought saves time but a homemade version works beautifully too
- 4 ounces Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated provides the best flavor and texture compared to pre-shredded varieties
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and generously season with kosher salt until it tastes like sea water. Cook the farfalle according to package directions until just al dente about 10 to 12 minutes. Be careful not to overcook as the pasta will continue to soften slightly when mixed with the dressing. Rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process drain thoroughly and place in a large mixing bowl.
- Roast the Tomatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Spread the small tomatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer and drizzle with the olive oil. Gently toss to coat each tomato evenly. Season with a pinch of kosher salt and several grinds of black pepper. Roast until the tomatoes begin to burst and release their juices about 12 to 15 minutes. The slight caramelization intensifies their natural sweetness and creates a wonderful contrast to the savory Caesar dressing.
- Prepare the Kale and Assemble:
- Remove the tough center stems from the kale and chop the leaves into small bite sized pieces. Add the prepared kale and roasted tomatoes to the bowl with the cooled pasta. Pour about half the bottle of Caesar dressing over the ingredients and toss gently to coat. The warmth from the tomatoes will slightly wilt the kale to the perfect texture. Add more dressing if desired until everything is well coated but not drowning. Sprinkle generously with the grated Parmesan cheese and finish with freshly ground black pepper. Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
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The kale is what truly transforms this pasta salad from ordinary to extraordinary. Unlike traditional salad greens that wilt quickly when dressed kale actually improves with time as the sturdy leaves soften slightly while maintaining their structure. I discovered this happy accident when I made too much for a dinner party and found the leftovers were even better the next day.
Make It Your Own
This versatile pasta salad welcomes customization based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Try adding crispy bacon bits for smokiness and crunch or toss in some diced avocado just before serving for creamy richness. Grilled chicken makes it a complete protein packed meal while white beans add vegetarian protein. For a Mediterranean twist incorporate olives capers and sun dried tomatoes instead of the roasted fresh ones.
Storage Tips
The beauty of this kale pasta salad is that it actually improves with time unlike traditional lettuce based salads. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to develop as the ingredients marry together. If the salad seems dry after refrigeration simply drizzle with a small amount of additional Caesar dressing and toss gently before serving. I often make a double batch specifically to have convenient ready to eat lunches throughout the week.
Perfect Pairings
This robust pasta salad pairs beautifully with grilled proteins. Try it alongside lemon herb grilled chicken simple seared salmon or garlic butter shrimp. For a vegetarian meal serve with crusty artisan bread and a glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. During cooler months it makes an excellent side to a warming soup like tomato bisque or Italian wedding soup. The versatility of this dish means it complements nearly any main course while being substantial enough to stand alone.
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Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe
- → Can I use a different type of pasta for this salad?
Absolutely! While farfalle (bow-tie) pasta works great for catching the dressing, you can substitute any medium-sized pasta shape like penne, rotini, or fusilli with excellent results.
- → How do I store leftover Kale Caesar Pasta Salad?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often improve after a day as the ingredients meld together. You may want to add a small amount of extra dressing before serving if it seems dry.
- → Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The kale holds up well without wilting, unlike more delicate greens.
- → What can I substitute for kale if I don't have it?
If kale isn't available, try using baby spinach, arugula, or romaine lettuce. Keep in mind that these greens are more delicate than kale, so you might want to add them closer to serving time.
- → Can I make my own Caesar dressing instead of using bottled?
Definitely! Homemade Caesar dressing with lemon juice, garlic, anchovy paste, Dijon mustard, egg yolk, olive oil, and Parmesan will elevate this salad. Just whisk everything together and adjust seasonings to taste.
- → How can I make this salad more substantial?
To transform this into a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for protein. You could also include additional vegetables like cucumber, bell pepper, or avocado.