Club Sandwich Pasta Salad
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A delightful twist on the classic club sandwich, this pasta salad combines all the favorite ingredients into a hearty dish perfect for picnics or potlucks.
This Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is the ultimate comfort food that combines the flavors of a classic club sandwich with the ease of a pasta salad. Ideal for gatherings!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A fun and delicious way to enjoy a classic sandwich in pasta form
- Packed with fresh veggies and protein for a satisfying meal
- Great for meal prep or as a side dish for barbecues
A Classic Reimagined
The Club Sandwich Pasta Salad presents a delightful twist on the beloved club sandwich, merging classic flavors into a refreshing pasta dish. Imagine the layers of turkey, bacon, cheese, and fresh veggies, all brought together in a vibrant salad that's just as satisfying as a traditional sandwich. This recipe is perfect for those days when you crave the comfort of a hearty meal but want something lighter and more portable.
This pasta salad captures the essence of the club sandwich while providing a unique texture and flavor profile. The rotini pasta serves as the perfect base, allowing the dressing and ingredients to cling beautifully, ensuring that every bite is packed with taste. It's an innovative way to enjoy a familiar dish, making it a hit at gatherings and family dinners.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're planning a picnic, hosting a barbecue, or simply meal prepping for the week ahead, this Club Sandwich Pasta Salad fits the bill. It's a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or as a hearty side. The combination of protein-rich chicken and crispy bacon with fresh vegetables makes it a well-rounded option that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Additionally, this pasta salad is an excellent choice for potlucks and gatherings. It can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy your event without the stress of last-minute cooking. Just prepare it, chill it, and let the flavors meld together for a deliciously satisfying dish that everyone will love.
Meal Prep Made Easy
One of the best aspects of this Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is its suitability for meal prep. Prepare a large batch at the beginning of the week and portion it out for lunches or quick dinners. This not only saves time but also ensures you have a nutritious option readily available, making it easier to stick to healthy eating habits despite a busy schedule.
The salad keeps well in the fridge, and the flavors continue to develop as it sits, making it a great option for those who enjoy leftovers. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and enjoy it throughout the week!
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 8 oz. rotini pasta
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
For the Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients thoroughly for an even distribution of flavors.
Instructions
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 to cool.
Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chicken, bacon, tomatoes, cucumber, cheddar cheese, and green onions. Pour the dressing over the top and toss to combine.
Chill and Serve
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Enjoy chilled!
Serve with extra green onions for garnish if desired.
Storage Tips
To keep your Club Sandwich Pasta Salad fresh and flavorful, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 3 to 5 days, making it a perfect option for meal prep. If you find yourself with leftovers, simply give it a quick stir before serving to redistribute the dressing and ingredients.
If you plan to make the salad ahead of time, consider keeping the dressing separate until you're ready to serve. This way, the pasta and veggies won’t become soggy, and you can enjoy that fresh taste with every bite.
Customizing Your Salad
One of the great things about this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Swap out the chicken for turkey, add some diced avocado for creaminess, or throw in your favorite veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
You can also experiment with different dressings. While the creamy mayonnaise-based dressing is traditional, a zesty vinaigrette could add a refreshing twist. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this dish your own and keep it exciting every time you prepare it.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this pasta salad can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free pasta to make this salad gluten-free.
→ What can I substitute for chicken?
You can use turkey, ham, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
→ How long does this salad last in the fridge?
It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.
Club Sandwich Pasta Salad
A delightful twist on the classic club sandwich, this pasta salad combines all the favorite ingredients into a hearty dish perfect for picnics or potlucks.
Created by: Hayley Morton
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
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
For the Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 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 to cool.
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chicken, bacon, tomatoes, cucumber, cheddar cheese, and green onions. Pour the dressing over the top and toss to combine.
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Enjoy chilled!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 16g