1 1/2 cups short cut pasta 6 slices thick cut bacon 4 cups chopped Romaine lettuce 1/2 shaved Parmesan Cheese 1/4 cup Caesar dressing Homemade Garlic Croutons: 2 cups bread (torn into bite-sized pieces) 1.5 tbsp extra vitgin olive oil 1.5 tbsp melted butter 1/2 tsp Italian Seasoning 1/4 tsp garlic powder 2 cloves garlic (minced) kosher salt & pepper (to taste)
Make the Croutons: – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). – Tear the bread into rustic, bite-sized chunks. – Spread the bread pieces on a sheet pan and toss with olive oil, melted butter, Italian seasoning, a sprinkle of garlic powder, kosher salt, and pepper. – Bake for 10-12 minutes, then remove from the oven. – Add minced garlic to the croutons, toss, and continue baking for an additional 4-6 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cook the Pasta: – Bring a large pot of water to a boil. – Generously salt the water and cook the pasta according to the package directions. – Drain the pasta and allow it to cool. Construct the Salad: – In a large mixing bowl, combine the romaine lettuce, pasta, crumbled crispy bacon, homemade croutons, Parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing. – Toss everything together until well combined. Plate & Serve: – Plate the salad and top with additional Parmesan cheese and a few cracks of black pepper. – Serve immediately and enjoy!