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I put this pasta together because I was tired of the same old Caesar salad. Mixing fluffy pasta with the bold Caesar flavors just worked out way better than I expected. The garlic bread bits throw in just the right amount of crunch and the creamy sauce really brings everything together. It's turned into our main dish for potlucks and easy family nights.
Why You'll Love This
It packs all the Caesar goodness you know and turns it into a filling main dish. What I think is special is how the noodles hang onto all that killer dressing and stay perfectly chewy. You can totally switch it up for meal prep or big get-togethers. The topper of crunchy garlic crumbs? That's what'll have everyone asking for seconds.
Stuff You Need
- Romaine hearts: Get the crispest ones you can, they're all about that bite.
- Pasta: Farfalle works awesome because the shape catches the yumminess.
- Parmesan: Freshly grated is where it's at, trust me.
- Garlic Breadcrumbs: Toast these up for that amazing crunch factor.
- Caesar Dressing: The tastier the dressing, the better everything turns out.
- Chicken: Make sure it's seasoned well and cooked just right for extra flavor.
Time to Whip It Up
- Finish with Breadcrumbs
- Right before you eat it, toss on those crunchy breadcrumbs.
- Combine Ingredients
- Throw all your goodies into a big bowl and toss it up til it's all coated.
- Toast Breadcrumbs
- Get breadcrumbs getting crispy with garlic and butter in a pan.
- Cook the Pasta
- Boil pasta in salty water till it's just right—don't overdo it.
- Prepare the Chicken
- Give the chicken a good amount of seasoning, then cook until it's got a gold color all over.
Kitchen Tricks I Swear By
Salty pasta water is a must, don't forget that step. Always go for a block of Parmesan you grate yourself, it makes it so much fresher. Save the breadcrumbs for last so they don't get soggy. That juicy, well-seasoned chicken turns this into something awesome.
Make It Yours
I switch things up by using garlic shrimp or roasted chickpeas when I don't want chicken. Roasted veggies add color and flavor, and tossing in sun dried tomatoes or some olives gives it a whole new vibe. Fresh herbs on top? Always a yes.
How to Keep It Yummy
This one tastes awesome cold or at room temp. We like to have it with some fresh crusty bread on the side to round it out. It stores well for up to 3 days in the fridge—just make sure to add the bread bits when you're about to eat so they stay crunchy.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I prepare this earlier?
Sure! Keep everything separate till you’re ready to serve—especially the breadcrumbs so they stay crunchy.
- → Which pasta works best?
Bow-tie pasta is a great choice, but penne or rotini will do just fine! Just pick something that grabs the dressing.
- → How do I stop the lettuce from wilting?
Only mix in the romaine right before serving. Storing it separately helps keep it crisp.
- → Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Totally! Rotisserie chicken saves time. Chop it or shred it and you're good to go.
- → Why rinse the pasta after cooking?
It cools the pasta instantly and stops it from sticking together. Perfect when you’re making it for a salad.