Kale Caesar Pasta Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta salad is a nutritious and satisfying take on the traditional Caesar. Packed with kale, roasted chickpeas, and Parmesan cheese, it delivers both crunch and creaminess. The tahini dressing is a fantastic alternative to the classic Caesar dressing, and the whole dish comes together in under 40 minutes, making it a quick and easy meal option.

Ingredients

• 1 cup pasta (any short pasta like fusilli)

• 3 cups kale, chopped

• 1/2 cup roasted chickpeas

• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (or vegan cheese for a dairy-free version)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp lemon juice

• 1/4 cup tahini

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tbsp nutritional yeast

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Water to thin the dressing as needed

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Start by roasting the chickpeas. Toss them in olive oil, smoked paprika, and salt, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-40 minutes until crispy.

2. Make the dressing by blending olive oil, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, Dijon mustard, nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper. Adjust with water if necessary to reach desired consistency.

3. In a large salad bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped kale, roasted chickpeas, and Parmesan cheese.

4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat everything evenly.

5. Serve immediately or chill before serving. Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Parmesan if needed.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 30-40 minutes (for chickpeas)

• Total time: 40-50 minutes

Variations

• Protein addition: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.

• Add veggies: Try adding cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or bell peppers for extra freshness.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the salad and dressing separate if possible to maintain freshness.

• Reheating: This salad is best served chilled, but you can also enjoy it at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I make this Caesar Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components in advance and assemble just before serving to keep it fresh.

Is tahini Caesar dressing dairy-free?

Yes, the tahini Caesar dressing is dairy-free, making it suitable for vegan and lactose-intolerant diets.

Can I make this Caesar Pasta Salad vegan?

Yes, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast.

What other greens can I use instead of kale?

You can substitute kale with spinach, arugula, or mixed greens based on your preference.

Can I use store-bought dressing instead of homemade?

Yes, you can use a store-bought Caesar dressing, but making your own with tahini adds a unique flavor.

Can I add more vegetables to the salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or roasted red peppers.

How do I make the chickpeas extra crispy?

Make sure to dry the chickpeas thoroughly before roasting them to achieve maximum crispiness.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, gluten-free pasta works well in this recipe and will still provide the same great flavor.

How long will this salad last in the fridge?

It will stay fresh for about 3 days in the fridge. However, the texture may change slightly as the kale absorbs the dressing.

Can I use a different dressing?

Yes, you can use a store-bought or homemade vegan Caesar dressing if you prefer.

Conclusion

Kale Caesar Pasta Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that brings a twist to your typical Caesar salad. With its creamy tahini dressing, crispy chickpeas, and fresh kale, this salad is both hearty and healthy. Whether served as a main or a side, it’s sure to become a favorite addition to any meal!

Kale Caesar Pasta Salad

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews

• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-40 minutes (for chickpeas)
• Total Time: 40-50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Salad, Main Course, Side Dish
• Method: Roasting, Blending
• Cuisine: Mediterranean, Vegan (Dairy-Free Option)
• Diet: Vegan

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

---

Description

Kale Caesar Pasta Salad is a healthy, flavorful twist on the traditional Caesar salad. This dish combines pasta, kale, crispy roasted chickpeas, and a creamy tahini Caesar dressing for a rich, dairy-free option. Packed with nutrition and crunch, it’s a perfect main course or side dish for any gathering. Easy to make and customizable, this salad will become a family favorite!

---

Ingredients

1 cup pasta (short pasta like fusilli)

3 cups kale, chopped

1/2 cup roasted chickpeas

1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (or vegan cheese for a dairy-free version)

2 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp lemon juice

1/4 cup tahini

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tsp Dijon mustard

1 tbsp nutritional yeast

Salt and pepper to taste

Water (to thin the dressing as needed)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for the roasted chickpeas.

• Toss chickpeas in olive oil, smoked paprika, and salt, and bake for 30-40 minutes until crispy.

• In a blender, combine olive oil, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, Dijon mustard, nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper. Add water as needed to adjust the dressing’s consistency.

• In a large salad bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped kale, roasted chickpeas, and Parmesan cheese.

• Pour the tahini Caesar dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.

• Serve immediately or chill before serving. Adjust seasoning as needed.

---

Notes

Protein options: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.

Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.

Additional veggies: Add cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or bell peppers for more freshness.

Chickpea tip: Dry chickpeas thoroughly before roasting for maximum crispiness.