Club Sandwich Pasta Salad
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A delightful fusion of flavors, the Club Sandwich Pasta Salad combines the classic elements of a club sandwich with pasta for a refreshing and hearty dish.
This Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is a perfect dish for gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner. Bursting with flavor and color, it's sure to be a hit!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Combines the best of a club sandwich and pasta in one dish
- Fresh ingredients that provide a crunchy texture
- Versatile and perfect for meal prep or potlucks
The Perfect Summer Dish
As the weather warms up, the need for lighter, refreshing meals becomes paramount. The Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is an ideal choice for summer picnics, barbecues, and family gatherings. Its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients bring a sense of joy to the table, making it not just a meal but an experience. You can enjoy it as a standalone dish or as a delightful side that complements grilled meats.
One of the best aspects of this salad is its ability to be made ahead of time. Preparing it a few hours or even a day in advance allows the flavors to develop beautifully, resulting in a more robust taste. Whether you're hosting a party or simply meal prepping for the week, this salad is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.
Ingredient Versatility
The Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or even a plant-based protein if you're looking for a vegetarian option. The crispness of the cucumber and the sweetness of the cherry tomatoes provide a refreshing crunch, but you can easily add other vegetables like bell peppers or avocados for extra flavor and texture.
Additionally, the dressing is a simple yet flavorful mix of mayonnaise and Dijon mustard, but you can experiment with different dressings to suit your palate. A light vinaigrette or a creamy ranch could also work well, providing a different twist on this classic dish. This adaptability makes it not only a delicious option but also a fun canvas for culinary creativity.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re planning a casual family dinner, a potluck with friends, or a lunch meal prep, this Club Sandwich Pasta Salad fits the bill perfectly. Its hearty ingredients ensure that it is satisfying enough to be a main course, while its vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it appealing to a wide range of palates. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftovers, making it both economical and delicious.
Serving this pasta salad is a breeze. Just toss it in a bowl and let your guests help themselves. Its easy preparation and serving style make it a stress-free option for any gathering. Plus, you can easily double the recipe to feed a crowd, ensuring everyone gets a taste of this delightful dish.
Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients to make this delicious salad:
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (fusilli or rotini)
- 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 shredded lettuce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all the ingredients well to ensure even distribution of flavors.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your salad:
Cook the Pasta
Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, bacon, tomatoes, cucumber, and lettuce.
Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Toss the Salad
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
Chill and Serve
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Serve chilled and enjoy your Club Sandwich Pasta Salad!
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers from your Club Sandwich Pasta Salad, you're in luck! This dish stores beautifully in the refrigerator. Just transfer any uneaten portions into an airtight container, and it should keep for up to three days. The flavors continue to meld, making it a great option for lunch the next day.
However, if you're concerned about the lettuce wilting, consider storing it separately. You can mix it in just before serving to retain that crisp texture. This small step can make a big difference in the overall enjoyment of the salad when you decide to dig in again.
Pairing Suggestions
To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing the Club Sandwich Pasta Salad with a refreshing beverage. A chilled lemonade or iced tea complements the flavors beautifully, while a crisp white wine can enhance the meal for adult gatherings. These pairings will not only quench your thirst but also add a touch of elegance to your meal.
For those looking to round out the meal, serving some crusty bread or a light soup as a starter can create a satisfying dining experience. The combination of textures and flavors will have your guests raving about your culinary skills!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated.
→ What type of pasta works best?
Fusilli or rotini are great choices as they hold the dressing well.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, carrots, or even avocado would be great additions.
→ Is it suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it stores well in the fridge and is perfect for lunches throughout the week.
Club Sandwich Pasta Salad
A delightful fusion of flavors, the Club Sandwich Pasta Salad combines the classic elements of a club sandwich with pasta for a refreshing and hearty dish.
Created by: Freya Cooper
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (fusilli or rotini)
- 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 shredded lettuce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, bacon, tomatoes, cucumber, and lettuce.
In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 480mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 15g