Broccoli Caesar Pasta Salad is a refreshing and hearty twist on the classic Caesar salad. Instead of just romaine lettuce, this recipe brings in tender-crisp broccoli florets and al dente pasta, tossed together in a creamy, garlicky Caesar dressing.

It’s the ultimate combination of fresh crunch, satisfying carbs, and that irresistible tangy-salty Caesar flavor. This dish works beautifully as a side for summer BBQs, potlucks, or as a light main course you can enjoy anytime.

Why I Love This Recipe

We love this recipe because it takes the beloved flavors of a classic Caesar salad and gives them a hearty, refreshing twist by combining them with pasta and crisp-tender broccoli. The pasta adds a comforting, filling base, while the broccoli brings freshness, crunch, and a boost of nutrition that makes the dish both wholesome and satisfying.

Tossed in creamy Caesar dressing with Parmesan, garlic, and crunchy croutons, every bite is packed with bold, savory flavor and a perfect mix of textures.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This salad is a must-try because it takes two favorites—pasta salad and Caesar salad—and combines them into one irresistible dish. The creamy Caesar dressing clings perfectly to the pasta while the crisp broccoli adds freshness, crunch, and nutrition, creating a balance of hearty and wholesome in every bite.

Parmesan cheese and croutons bring that classic Caesar flair, while the pasta makes it filling enough to enjoy as a main course. It’s versatile, easy to make ahead, and perfect for potlucks, picnics, or simple weeknight dinners.

Recipe Details:

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories per serving: ~320–350 kcal

Ingredients

8 oz (about 3 cups) short pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle work well)
3 cups fresh broccoli florets (cut into bite-size pieces)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional for freshness and color)
½ cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional, for zing)
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup croutons (classic or homemade)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt (for pasta water)
½ tsp black pepper
Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets to the boiling pasta.
Drain pasta and broccoli together, then toss lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking. Allow to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine pasta, broccoli, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
Sprinkle in grated Parmesan.

Step 3: Add Dressing

Pour Caesar dressing over the salad.
Toss well until everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Add Croutons & Finish

Gently fold in croutons just before serving to keep them crunchy.
Season with black pepper and garnish with fresh parsley or basil.

How to Serve

Serve chilled or at room temperature as a side dish for grilled meats, sandwiches, or burgers.
Enjoy it as a light main course by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even roasted chickpeas for protein.
Pair with garlic bread for a wholesome meal.

Additional Tips & Variations:

Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, bacon bits, or shrimp.
Cheese Twist: Try shaved Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan.
Dressing Swap: Use a lighter Caesar dressing or Greek yogurt–based version for fewer calories.
Make it Colorful: Add bell peppers, roasted corn, or cucumber for extra crunch.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and croutons.

Freezing & Storage

Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Not recommended (the pasta and dressing don’t hold up well after thawing).
Make Ahead Tip: You can prepare the pasta and broccoli ahead of time, then toss with dressing and croutons just before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

Large pot (for boiling pasta and broccoli)
Colander (for draining)
Large mixing bowl
Salad tongs or wooden spoon (for tossing)

FAQ:

Q1: Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, but blanch it quickly in boiling water for 1–2 minutes, then drain well before adding.

Q2: Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes! Use vegan Caesar dressing, skip Parmesan or replace with nutritional yeast, and use vegan croutons.

Q3: How can I keep the croutons crunchy?
Always add them just before serving. If making ahead, store separately.

Q4: Can I serve it warm?
Yes! It’s delicious slightly warm right after cooking, or chilled after refrigeration.

Q5: What pasta shape works best?
Short pasta like rotini, penne, or farfalle is ideal because it holds the dressing well.

Conclusion

Broccoli Caesar Pasta Salad is a refreshing, wholesome, and versatile dish that merges the best of two worlds—creamy Caesar salad and hearty pasta salad. With its vibrant colors, crunchy textures, and bold flavors, it’s a guaranteed hit for potlucks, picnics, or family dinners. Quick to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and always satisfying, this is one recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again.