Description
A refreshing and filling pasta salad combining hearty kale, savory Caesar dressing, and crunchy elements, perfect for hot days or meal prep.
Ingredients
Pasta and Greens
- 8 oz rotini or penne pasta (Choose a type that holds dressing well.)
- 4 cups curly kale or lacinato kale (Remove tough stems and chop into bite-sized pieces.)
Dressing and Toppings
- 1/2 cup homemade Caesar dressing (See below for dressing recipe.)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (For best flavor.)
- 1 cup croutons (Add just before serving.)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (For brightness.)
Instructions
Cooking Pasta
- Cook the pasta in salted water until just tender. Drain and rinse with cool water to stop cooking.
Preparing Kale
- In a large bowl, add kale pieces, a pinch of salt, and a drizzle of olive oil. Massage the kale for about 30 seconds until it turns darker and softer.
Combining Ingredients
- Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with kale.
- Pour in the dressing, starting with a smaller amount. Toss to coat, and add more dressing as needed.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan, a squeeze of lemon, and black pepper.
- Add croutons right before serving to keep them crunchy.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within 2 to 3 days. Add a splash of dressing or water to refresh the salad before serving. Perfect for make-ahead meals!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Salad, Side Dish
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean