Club Sandwich Pasta Salad
This Club Sandwich Pasta Salad combines the classic flavors of a club sandwich with tender pasta for a refreshing and satisfying dish. Packed with crispy bacon, juicy turkey, and fresh veggies, it’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick family dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Simple ingredients come together in just 30 minutes.
- Packed with Flavor: Combines the best parts of a club sandwich into a creamy pasta salad.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for lunch, dinner, or as a crowd-pleasing side dish.
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Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 3 cups pasta (such as rotini, penne, or bowtie)
- 1 cup cooked turkey or chicken, diced
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste 🧂
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
- Dice the turkey or chicken and crumble the bacon.
- Slice the cherry tomatoes, shred the lettuce, and dice the red onion.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and red wine vinegar.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, turkey, bacon, tomatoes, lettuce, red onion, and cheddar cheese.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Club Sandwich Pasta Salad
- Customize Proteins: Swap turkey for chicken, ham, or even roast beef.
- Make It Lighter: Use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise for a healthier option.
- Crispier Bacon: Cook bacon in the oven or air fryer for evenly crispy pieces.
- Add Avocado: Dice fresh avocado and add it just before serving for extra creaminess.
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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~350 kcal
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the salad up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Add lettuce and dressing just before serving to keep it fresh.
2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any short pasta like fusilli, shells, or farfalle works well.
3. How long does it last in the fridge?
This pasta salad stays fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.
4. Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes! Skip the bacon and turkey and add hard-boiled eggs, chickpeas, or extra veggies for a vegetarian option.
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Final Thoughts
This Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is a delicious and versatile dish that combines all the elements of a classic club sandwich with the creamy comfort of pasta. Perfect for summer gatherings, meal prep, or a flavorful side dish, it’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Visual Guide
- Chopping Ingredients: Fresh veggies, crispy bacon, and turkey ready to mix.
- Tossing the Salad: Combining pasta and ingredients with the creamy dressing.
- Plated Salad: Vibrant pasta salad garnished and ready to serve.
Try this recipe today and enjoy the perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite!