Summer is in full swing, and I am always looking for a new recipes to make a splash at the next pool party or backyard BBQ. With this in mind, I decided to combine two of my warm weather favorites. Caesar salad fans—get ready to meet your new favorite BBQ side. For this pasta salad recipe, I took everything I love about the classic salad and added penne. The result is a pasta salad that is not only hearty and filling, but crisp and refreshing. Whether you’re looking for an easy, quick lunch, a potluck side, or an addition to your summer dinner, this pasta salad won’t let you down.
Although some pasta salads are perfect make-ahead sides, this one is really best served fresh. If made ahead and combined, the lettuce will start to wilt and get soggy—nobody wants that. As far as the dressing goes, you can totally choose your favorite store-bought variety, but I highly recommend making our homemade Caesar dressing for the best pasta salad imaginable.
Made this? Let us know how it went in the comments below!