Best 2 Grilled Caesar Pasta Salad Recipes

**Grilled Caesar Pasta Salad: A delightful blend of flavors and textures**

Indulge in the tantalizing Grilled Caesar Pasta Salad, a culinary symphony that harmonizes grilled chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, and a creamy homemade Caesar dressing. This dish is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, with grilled chicken providing savory smokiness, while cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness. Croutons add a delightful crunch, and Parmesan cheese lends a salty, nutty richness. Whether you're hosting a summer cookout or seeking a refreshing lunch option, this grilled pasta salad is sure to impress. The article also offers a vegetarian variation for those who prefer a meatless meal, as well as a gluten-free alternative for those with dietary restrictions.

Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!

TORTELLINI CAESAR SALAD

Tortellini Caesar Salad image

This salad was served at a dear friend's baby shower by a health-conscious friend, who suggested the dressing be prepared with low-fat or fat-free ingredients. Either way, the creamy dressing has plenty of garlic flavor and coats the pasta, romaine and croutons nicely. -Tammy Steenbock, Sembach Air Base, Germany

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Lunch Side Dishes

Time 20m

Yield 10 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 9

Ingredients

1 package (19 ounces) frozen cheese tortellini
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup 2% milk
1/4 cup plus 1/3 cup shredded Parmesan cheese, divided
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 garlic cloves, minced
8 cups torn romaine
1 cup seasoned salad croutons
Halved cherry tomatoes, optional

Steps:

Cook tortellini according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, milk, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, lemon juice and garlic. , Drain tortellini and rinse in cold water; transfer to a large bowl. Add romaine and remaining Parmesan. Just before serving, drizzle with dressing; toss to coat. Top with croutons and tomatoes if desired.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 237 calories, Fat 14g fat (4g saturated fat), Cholesterol 17mg cholesterol, Sodium 327mg sodium, Carbohydrate 19g carbohydrate (2g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 8g protein.

GRILLED CAESAR PASTA SALAD

Grilled Caesar Pasta Salad image

Suddenly Salad® Caesar makes grilled salad easy and a crowd favorite. Serve it for your tailgating get together.

Provided by Betty Crocker Kitchens

Categories Entree

Time 35m

Yield 4

Number Of Ingredients 9

Ingredients

1 box Betty Crocker™ Suddenly Salad® Caesar pasta salad mix
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 lb uncooked boneless chicken tenders (not breaded)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 heads baby Romaine lettuce, cut in half lengthwise
Olive oil for drizzling
Croutons, as desired
Shaved Parmesan cheese, as desired

Steps:

Pour pasta (from Suddenly Salad box) into 3-quart saucepan 2/3 full of boiling water. Gently boil uncovered 12 minutes, stirring occasionally. Drain pasta. Rinse with cold water; drain well.
In large bowl, mix seasoning & crouton blend (from Suddenly Salad box), 3 tablespoons olive oil and the lemon juice. Stir in cooked pasta. Cover; refrigerate until ready to serve. In small bowl, coat chicken tenders with mustard; set aside.
Heat gas or charcoal grill. Place chicken tenders on grill over medium-high heat. Cover grill; cook chicken tenders about 8 minutes, turning after 4 minutes, until chicken is no longer pink. Drizzle lettuce with olive oil. Place lettuce on grill, cut side down. Cook 1 to 2 minutes or just until light grill marks appear.
To serve, place pasta mixture on large serving platters. Top with chicken tenders. Arrange lettuce around edges of platter; top with cheese.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 460, Carbohydrate 48 g, Cholesterol 50 mg, Fat 2 1/2, Fiber 7 g, Protein 34 g, SaturatedFat 2 g, ServingSize 1 Serving, Sodium 740 mg, Sugar 6 g, TransFat 0 g

Tips:

Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
Don't overcook the pasta. It should be al dente, or slightly firm to the bite.
Use a good quality olive oil for the dressing.
Add the dressing to the pasta while it is still warm, so that it can absorb the flavor.
Top the salad with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and crispy croutons.
Serve the salad immediately, or chill it for later.

Conclusion:

Grilled Caesar Pasta Salad is a delicious and easy-to-make summer dish. It is perfect for a potluck, picnic, or barbecue. The salad is made with grilled chicken or shrimp, pasta, grilled vegetables, and a creamy Caesar dressing. It is topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and crispy croutons. Grilled Caesar Pasta Salad is a great way to enjoy the flavors of summer.