Club Sandwich Pasta Salad
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
A delicious and hearty pasta salad that combines all the flavors of a classic club sandwich in a refreshing dish.
This Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is the perfect blend of textures and flavors, ideal for picnics, potlucks, or a quick family meal. Enjoy the best of both worlds with this fun twist on a classic sandwich!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- All the classic flavors of a club sandwich in a fun pasta form
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
- Loaded with fresh ingredients for a healthy option
A Twist on a Classic
The Club Sandwich Pasta Salad brings together beloved elements of a classic club sandwich in an unexpected and delightful way. With its layers of flavors and textures, this dish is perfect for anyone who loves the combination of savory chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh vegetables. Each bite offers a familiar taste, yet it feels new and exciting when served as a pasta salad.
This recipe is particularly great for those who enjoy meal prepping or need a dish that can serve a crowd. The pasta salad can be made in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over time. It’s a fantastic option for potlucks, barbecues, or even a simple family dinner, ensuring that everyone will find something they love in this colorful, hearty dish.
Healthy and Wholesome
One of the best aspects of the Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is its emphasis on fresh, wholesome ingredients. The use of rotini pasta provides a satisfying base, while the addition of chicken and bacon offers protein that will keep you full and energized throughout the day. Fresh cherry tomatoes and romaine lettuce add not only crunch but also a dose of vitamins and minerals, making this salad as nutritious as it is delicious.
By adjusting the ingredients, you can customize this salad to fit various dietary preferences. For instance, substituting turkey for chicken, or using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise can easily make this dish lighter. It’s ideal for those looking to enjoy a comforting meal without compromising their health goals.
Perfect for Any Occasion
The versatility of the Club Sandwich Pasta Salad makes it suitable for many occasions. Whether you're hosting a summer picnic, preparing for game day, or simply looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal, this recipe fits the bill. It’s a dish that appeals to both children and adults, making it a family favorite.
Additionally, the salad can be served as a main course or a side dish, depending on your needs. Pair it with grilled vegetables or a light soup for a complete meal, or serve it alongside other appetizers at your next gathering. The vibrant colors and appealing presentation are sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients for a delicious and quick pasta salad.
Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Once you've gathered everything, you're ready to start preparing your salad!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Club Sandwich Pasta Salad.
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced chicken, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, chopped romaine, and shredded cheddar cheese.
Add Dressing
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently until everything is well coated.
Chill and Serve
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Your Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is ready to be served! Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving the Club Sandwich Pasta Salad, presentation is key. Serve it in a large, colorful bowl to showcase the vibrant ingredients. You can also garnish it with extra cherry tomatoes or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added freshness and an appealing touch.
For a more substantial meal, consider pairing this salad with crusty bread or garlic breadsticks. The combination of textures and flavors will elevate your dining experience, making it feel special and satisfying for everyone at the table.
Storage Tips
To ensure your Club Sandwich Pasta Salad stays fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This salad is best enjoyed within 3 to 5 days after preparation. If you anticipate leftovers, consider keeping the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to maintain the crispness of the vegetables.
If you find yourself with an abundance of this delicious salad, feel free to freeze it for later. While the texture may change slightly after thawing, it’s still a convenient option for busy weeks ahead. Just thaw in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until serving.
→ What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Rotini or fusilli are great choices because they hold the dressing well, but you can use any pasta you prefer.
→ Can I substitute the chicken?
Absolutely! You can use turkey, ham, or even go vegetarian by adding more veggies.
→ How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Club Sandwich Pasta Salad
A delicious and hearty pasta salad that combines all the flavors of a classic club sandwich in a refreshing dish.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced chicken, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, chopped romaine, and shredded cheddar cheese.
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently until everything is well coated.
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 22g