If you love the satisfying combination of flavors found in a traditional club sandwich, then you’re in for a treat with this Club Sandwich Pasta Salad! This dish takes all the best elements of the classic club sandwich—juicy chicken, crispy bacon, fresh veggies, and creamy cheese—and turns it into a vibrant, refreshing pasta salad.
Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a quick and satisfying lunch, this pasta salad is versatile, easy to prepare, and packed with flavor.
Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing side dish or a standalone meal, this Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is sure to impress. With tender pasta, a creamy dressing, and a mix of crunchy and savory ingredients, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Best of all, it’s easily customizable to suit your taste preferences, so feel free to add or swap ingredients to make it your own. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious recipe!
Ingredients :
For the Salad:
- 12 oz pasta (rotini, bowtie, or penne are great options)
- 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced (rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for convenience)
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (smoky, crispy goodness)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (fresh and sweet)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce (for that classic crunch)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for richness and flavor)
- 1/2 cup diced red onion (a mild, tangy bite)
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (the creamy base)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (adds a tangy richness)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (for a subtle, zesty kick)
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (brightens the flavor profile)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for savory depth)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
- Diced avocado (adds creaminess and a boost of healthy fats)
- Chopped hard-boiled eggs (for additional protein and richness)
- Diced pickles (for a tangy, crunchy twist)
- Fresh herbs like parsley or dill (to enhance freshness)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. This should take about 8-10 minutes, depending on the type of pasta you’re using. Once the pasta is done, drain it and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. This step stops the cooking process and helps prevent the pasta from becoming mushy. Set the pasta aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Prepare the Dressing
In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and well-mixed. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning to your liking. If you prefer a tangier dressing, you can add a bit more vinegar or mustard. Once the dressing is ready, refrigerate it while you assemble the salad to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Combine the Salad Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta along with the diced chicken, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, shredded lettuce, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced red onion. Gently toss the ingredients to combine, ensuring that everything is evenly distributed.
4. Add the Dressing
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta mixture. Toss gently to coat all of the ingredients with the creamy dressing. Be careful not to overmix, as you want the ingredients to stay intact and not turn mushy.
5. Chill and Serve
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving. This gives the salad time to chill and allows the flavors to develop. The cool temperature enhances the fresh, crispy texture of the vegetables and lets the dressing soak into the pasta. Serve the salad chilled and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate the presentation and flavor, garnish your Club Sandwich Pasta Salad with additional crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, or fresh parsley. You can also serve it with crusty bread or crackers on the side for extra texture. This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, from grilled vegetables to fresh fruit salads.
Storage Tips
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the lettuce may lose some of its crunch as it sits in the dressing, so it’s best to add the lettuce fresh if you plan to make the salad ahead of time. You can also prepare the pasta and dressing in advance and then assemble the salad just before serving for the best results.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in a flash and is a great option for busy days when you want something satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen.
- Endlessly Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your preferences. Add more veggies, change the type of cheese, or toss in some of your favorite sandwich fillings to make it your own.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re serving it at a potluck, a family BBQ, or as a make-ahead meal, this pasta salad is guaranteed to be a hit.
- Packed with Flavor: From the crispy bacon to the creamy dressing, every bite is bursting with deliciousness. It’s a fun, flavorful way to enjoy all the components of a classic club sandwich in one dish.
Conclusion :
This Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is a delightful and creative twist on the classic club sandwich. With its combination of tender pasta, juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh veggies, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy everyone at your table. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or simply need an easy lunch, this recipe delivers on flavor, convenience, and versatility. Try it out today and bring the classic club sandwich to life in a whole new way!
