Go Back

Creamy Kale Caesar Pasta Salad

A vibrant pasta salad with massaged kale, al dente pasta, and a rich homemade creamy Caesar dressing—perfect for meals or sides.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Greens
  • 12 oz short pasta farfalle, penne, or rotini
  • 6 cups chopped curly kale stems removed
Creamy Caesar Dressing
  • 0.5 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
  • 0.33 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus extra for topping
  • 2-3 anchovy fillets or 1 tsp paste, omit for vegetarian
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce or vegan alternative
  • 0.25 cup olive oil
  • salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup croutons or roasted chickpeas

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Blender or food processor
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Colander

Method
 

  1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and cool.
  2. Massage chopped kale with 1 tsp olive oil and salt for 2-3 minutes until tender.
  3. Blend dressing ingredients (mayo, Parmesan, anchovies, garlic, lemon, Dijon, Worcestershire, pepper), then slowly add olive oil while blending.
  4. Toss cooled pasta and kale with most of the dressing in a large bowl.
  5. Add croutons or chickpeas just before serving. Top with extra Parmesan and pepper.
  6. Chill briefly or serve immediately.

Notes

Massage kale well for best texture. Adjust dressing to taste; store separately if making ahead.