Club Sandwich Pasta Salad
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Enjoy the flavors of a classic club sandwich in a refreshing pasta salad form. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner.
This Club Sandwich Pasta Salad combines all the favorite elements of a club sandwich in a delightful pasta dish. It's a great way to enjoy your favorite sandwich flavors in a new and exciting way!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- All the classic club sandwich flavors in a convenient pasta salad
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
- Versatile and customizable with your favorite ingredients
Perfect for Any Occasion
The Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is not just a meal; it's an experience that can elevate any gathering. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue, a cozy family dinner, or a festive potluck, this dish fits right in. Its vibrant colors and delightful flavors are sure to catch the eye and tantalize the taste buds of your guests.
Moreover, this pasta salad is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for various occasions. You can easily scale the recipe up or down depending on the number of guests. Plus, it holds up well in the fridge, making it an excellent make-ahead option for busy hosts.
Customizable to Your Taste
One of the best aspects of the Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is its adaptability. You can swap out ingredients based on personal preferences or dietary restrictions. For instance, if you're looking for a vegetarian option, consider adding grilled vegetables or chickpeas instead of chicken and bacon. You can also experiment with different cheeses or add nuts for an extra crunch.
Feel free to get creative with the dressing as well. While the classic mayonnaise and Dijon mustard combination is delicious, you can try adding Greek yogurt for a lighter version or incorporating herbs and spices for added flavor. The flexibility of this recipe means you can enjoy a unique version each time you make it!
Nutritional Benefits
Not only is this Club Sandwich Pasta Salad delicious, but it also packs a nutritional punch. The inclusion of chicken provides a hearty source of protein, while the colorful array of vegetables like cherry tomatoes and cucumbers offers essential vitamins and minerals. Adding fresh greens not only enhances the presentation but also boosts the fiber content, making it a more balanced meal.
If you're looking to make it even healthier, consider using whole grain pasta for added fiber and nutrients. This simple swap can enhance the overall nutritional profile of the dish, making it a guilt-free indulgence that everyone can enjoy.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Pasta Salad
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lettuce leaves for serving
Mix all ingredients well and serve on a bed of lettuce leaves!
Instructions
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced chicken, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, cheddar cheese, and red onion.
Make the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Toss the Salad
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
Serve
Serve the pasta salad on a bed of lettuce leaves and enjoy!
Enjoy your delicious and easy Club Sandwich Pasta Salad!
Storing Your Pasta Salad
If you have leftovers, storing your Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is a breeze. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days, allowing you to enjoy the flavors even after the initial meal. However, it's best to keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to prevent the pasta from soaking up too much moisture.
When you're ready to eat the leftovers, simply give it a gentle toss and add a bit more dressing if needed. This dish also works well as a quick lunch option, making it a practical choice for meal prep enthusiasts.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement the flavors of the Club Sandwich Pasta Salad, consider pairing it with a light, refreshing drink. Iced tea, lemonade, or even a crisp white wine can enhance the overall dining experience. The acidity in these beverages balances the creaminess of the salad, creating a harmonious meal.
For those looking for a complete meal, serve the pasta salad alongside some fresh fruit or a simple green salad. This will not only add variety to your plate but also increase your intake of nutrients, making for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this pasta salad can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving.
→ What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
You can use Greek yogurt or a vinaigrette dressing for a lighter option.
→ How long will this pasta salad last in the fridge?
It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.
→ Can I add other ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, olives, or any of your favorite salad ingredients.
Club Sandwich Pasta Salad
Enjoy the flavors of a classic club sandwich in a refreshing pasta salad form. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner.
Created by: Olivia Barrett
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Pasta Salad
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lettuce leaves for serving
How-To Steps
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced chicken, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, cheddar cheese, and red onion.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
Serve the pasta salad on a bed of lettuce leaves and enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 12g