Club Sandwich Pasta Salad
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on the classic club sandwich, combining tender pasta with all the classic flavors in a creamy dressing.
This Club Sandwich Pasta Salad brings together all the elements of a classic club sandwich in a refreshing pasta salad format. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a quick lunch, this dish is sure to please a crowd.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A delicious combination of flavors and textures
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
- Great for meal prep or as a side dish for gatherings
A Flavorful Fusion
The Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is a delightful amalgamation of flavors that brings together the beloved elements of a classic club sandwich in a refreshing pasta salad. With tender rotini pasta serving as the base, this dish is complemented by the savory notes of diced chicken and crispy bacon. Each ingredient contributes to a symphony of taste that is both satisfying and invigorating, perfect for any occasion.
In addition to the protein-packed chicken and bacon, the vibrant cherry tomatoes and crunchy cucumber add freshness and color to the dish. The shredded cheddar cheese provides a creamy richness that enhances the overall flavor profile. Together, these ingredients create a pasta salad that is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great centerpiece for your meal.
Ideal for Any Occasion
This pasta salad is incredibly versatile, making it an ideal choice for various occasions. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a picnic, or simply looking for a quick weeknight dinner, the Club Sandwich Pasta Salad fits the bill perfectly. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients ensure that it will satisfy both kids and adults alike, making it a family favorite.
Additionally, this dish is fantastic for meal prepping. You can make a large batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and you'll have a delicious, ready-to-eat meal that saves you time and effort.
Customization Options
One of the best things about the Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is its adaptability. Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and bacon and load up on additional veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or even avocado for a creamy twist.
You can also experiment with different dressings to give the salad a unique flavor. Try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy kick or substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream for a lighter alternative. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this dish your own while still keeping its essence.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
For the Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl and enjoy!
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
Prepare the Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Combine the Salad
In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, bacon, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, cheddar cheese, and green onions. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Serve
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
Enjoy your delicious Club Sandwich Pasta Salad!
Serving Suggestions
This Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is best served chilled, making it a perfect dish for warm weather gatherings. Pair it with crusty bread or garlic knots for a complete meal that everyone will love. For a more substantial feast, consider serving it alongside grilled meats or a variety of appetizers to create a buffet-style spread.
If you're looking to elevate your presentation, consider garnishing the salad with fresh herbs like parsley or basil. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile, giving it a gourmet touch that will impress your guests.
Storage Tips
To keep your Club Sandwich Pasta Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can typically be kept for about 3 to 5 days, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving, as the dressing may settle at the bottom.
If you plan to make this salad ahead of time, consider storing the dressing separately and adding it just before serving. This will help maintain the texture of the pasta and prevent it from becoming soggy. Enjoy the convenience of having a delicious meal ready whenever you need it!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator.
→ What type of pasta works best?
Rotini or penne pasta works great for this salad as they hold the dressing well.
→ Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Turkey works perfectly in this recipe.
→ Is this salad gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.
Club Sandwich Pasta Salad
This Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on the classic club sandwich, combining tender pasta with all the classic flavors in a creamy dressing.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Salad
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
For the Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, bacon, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, cheddar cheese, and green onions. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 25g