Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite summer dish: Club Sandwich Pasta Salad! It’s like taking all the flavors of a classic club sandwich and tossing them into a bowl of pasta—seriously, what could be better? I whip this up during those sunny days when I want something light yet satisfying. It’s refreshing, colorful, and oh-so-tasty! The crispy bacon, juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy dressing come together in a way that makes every bite feel like a little party in your mouth. Plus, it’s super easy to make, which means I can spend less time in the kitchen and more time soaking up the sun. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become your go-to dish for picnics, barbecues, or just a cozy night in!
Ingredients List
- 8 ounces rotini pasta (this fun, spiral pasta holds onto the dressing beautifully)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced (leftover rotisserie chicken works like a charm)
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (because bacon makes everything better!)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (for that juicy pop of flavor)
- 1 cup cucumber, diced (adds a refreshing crunch)
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, cubed (choose sharp for more flavor)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (this is key for creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (for a little zing)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t skip on seasoning; it really brings everything together!)
How to Prepare Club Sandwich Pasta Salad
Cooking the Pasta
First things first, let’s get that rotini pasta cooked! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and throw in the pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—this usually takes about 8-10 minutes. You want it firm enough to hold up in the salad but tender enough to enjoy. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This little step is super important; it keeps the pasta from getting mushy!
Combining the Ingredients
Now that your pasta is cooled, let’s bring all those delicious ingredients together! In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rotini, diced chicken, the crispy crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and the cubed cheddar cheese. I love how colorful this mix looks—it’s like a summer garden in a bowl! Give everything a gentle stir to start blending those flavors.
Making the Dressing
Next up, let’s whip up that creamy dressing! In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until smooth and well combined. I like to make sure it’s mixed really well—this dressing is what ties everything together, so you want that zingy flavor to shine through!
Tossing the Salad
Time to bring it all home! Pour the dressing over your pasta salad and gently toss everything together. You want to coat all the ingredients evenly without crushing the tomatoes or cucumber. Just a few gentle turns should do it—feel free to sneak a taste at this point; it’s always a good idea!
Seasoning and Chilling
Finally, it’s seasoning time! Sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy—this is where the flavors really come alive! Once seasoned, cover the salad and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling it gives the flavors a chance to meld and makes it extra refreshing when you’re ready to serve. Trust me, the wait is worth it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!
- Filled with classic club sandwich flavors, it’s a delicious twist on a beloved favorite.
- Colorful and vibrant, this pasta salad is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate!
- Great for meal prep—make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.
- Customizable! Add your favorite veggies or proteins to make it your own.
- Perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or potlucks—everyone will be asking for the recipe!
- Light yet filling, it’s a satisfying dish that won’t weigh you down.
- Chilled and refreshing, it’s ideal for hot days when you want something cool and tasty!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your Club Sandwich Pasta Salad turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my top tips that I swear by:
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente is your best friend here! It helps prevent mushiness and keeps the salad nice and hearty.
- Use leftover chicken: If you’ve got some rotisserie chicken hanging out in your fridge, use that! It’s a huge time-saver and gives the salad a delicious flavor.
- Experiment with veggies: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, diced red onion, or even some sweet corn for a fun twist! The more colorful, the better.
- Adjust the dressing: If you like it creamier, add a touch more mayonnaise. For a bit more zing, just a splash of vinegar can brighten things up!
- Chill longer if you can: If you’ve got the time, chilling the salad for an hour or more will deepen those flavors even more. It’s totally worth the wait!
- Keep it fresh: If you’re making this salad in advance, consider adding delicate ingredients like tomatoes or cucumbers just before serving to keep them crisp.
- Make it a meal: Want to turn this salad into a heartier dish? Add some cooked quinoa or chickpeas for an extra protein boost!
With these tips, you’ll have a Club Sandwich Pasta Salad that’s sure to impress everyone at your table. Happy cooking!
Variations
One of the best things about this Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is how versatile it is! I love to mix it up based on what I have on hand or what I’m craving at the moment. Here are some fun variations to keep things exciting:
- Vegetable Medley: Swap out the cucumber for some diced bell peppers or shredded carrots for a crunch. You can even throw in some frozen peas for a pop of color and sweetness!
- Different Proteins: Switch the chicken for some turkey or even ham if you’re feeling adventurous. Grilled shrimp or diced hard-boiled eggs work beautifully too!
- Herbed Up: Add fresh herbs like chopped parsley, dill, or basil to bring a burst of freshness. I love how parsley adds a nice bite to the salad!
- Cheese Variations: Don’t feel limited to cheddar! Try feta cheese for a tangy twist or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Yum!
- Custom Dressings: Instead of the classic mayo and Dijon, experiment with a yogurt-based dressing for a lighter option or a zesty vinaigrette for a different flavor profile.
- Fruit Add-Ins: For a sweet touch, toss in some diced apples or grapes. They add a lovely contrast to the savory ingredients!
- Whole Grain Pasta: If you want to make it even healthier, try using whole grain or chickpea pasta. It changes the flavor a bit but adds a great nutritional boost!
With these variations, you can keep your Club Sandwich Pasta Salad fresh and exciting every time you make it. So go ahead, get creative, and make it your own!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk numbers! Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional information for one serving of my delicious Club Sandwich Pasta Salad. Keep in mind, these values can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you use, but this will give you a good idea of what you’re working with:
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 15g
This salad is not only satisfying but also packs a decent protein punch thanks to the chicken and bacon, making it a great option for a light meal. Plus, with all those fresh veggies, you’re getting some good nutrients in there too! Enjoy this delightful dish without the guilt, and feel free to tweak the ingredients to suit your dietary needs!
FAQ Section
How long can I store Club Sandwich Pasta Salad?
You can keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving, as the dressing may settle a bit.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, it’s even better when made a day in advance. Just let those flavors meld together in the fridge overnight, and you’ll have a delicious salad ready to go!
What should I serve with Club Sandwich Pasta Salad?
This pasta salad is super versatile! It pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a light lunch on its own. I also love serving it alongside some crusty bread or a fresh green salad.
Can I freeze Club Sandwich Pasta Salad?
I don’t recommend freezing it, as the texture of the pasta and fresh veggies can change. It’s best enjoyed fresh or chilled from the fridge!
What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
No worries! You can substitute it with yellow mustard or even a splash of vinegar for some acidity. Just adjust the amount to suit your taste!
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your vegetable choices. Bell peppers, carrots, or even some avocado would be delicious additions. Just keep in mind the texture and flavor balance!
Is this salad gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free pasta, then yes! Just check the labels on all your ingredients to ensure everything is gluten-free.
How can I make this salad healthier?
You can make it lighter by using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the dressing, and by adding more fresh vegetables. Whole grain or chickpea pasta is also a fantastic way to increase the nutritional value!
Club Sandwich Pasta Salad: 7 Reasons to Love This Dish
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A refreshing pasta salad with club sandwich flavors.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces 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 cheddar cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the pasta, chicken, bacon, tomatoes, cucumber, and cheese.
- In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise and Dijon mustard.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- This salad can be made a day ahead.
- Feel free to add or substitute vegetables.
- Use leftover chicken for a quicker prep time.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Club Sandwich Pasta Salad