This Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is a fun twist on your favorite sandwich! It mixes pasta with turkey, crispy bacon, lettuce, and tomatoes, making it colorful and packed with flavor.
I love how easy this salad is to whip up for lunch! You get all those yummy sandwich tastes without any fuss. Plus, leftovers taste great! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: Rotini is great for holding onto the dressing, but you can swap it for penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta if needed!
Cooked Chicken: Use leftover chicken or rotisserie for convenience. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try swapping the chicken for chickpeas or diced tofu.
Cooked Ham: If ham isn’t your thing, turkey, salami, or even cooked bacon works well. For a vegetarian version, consider using a plant-based deli slice.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a nice bite. Feel free to replace it with Monterey Jack or even a vegan cheese alternative.
Bacon: Bacon adds crunch and flavor. If you want a lighter option, you could use turkey bacon or omit it altogether for a vegetarian twist.
Mayonnaise: Traditional mayo gives creaminess, but Greek yogurt can be a healthier swap, or try a vegan mayonnaise for a dairy-free version!
How Do You Make a Creamy Dressing That Sticks Well?
Making a good dressing is crucial for flavor. Here’s how to ensure it’s creamy and well-mixed:
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. The vinegar brightens the flavors.
- Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth. Adding the mustard first can help prevent lumps.
- Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to enhance the taste!
Once your dressing is ready, pour it over your pasta salad and gently toss everything. This ensures even coverage and yummier bites!
How to Make Club Sandwich Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Salad:
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, diced
- ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
- ½ cup green onions, sliced
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Club Sandwich Pasta Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an extra 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In total, you’ll spend about 45 minutes before you can enjoy this refreshing dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by cooking the rotini pasta according to the instructions on the package. Once it’s al dente, drain the pasta and let it cool. You can run it under cold water to speed up the cooling process if you’d like.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled rotini pasta along with the diced chicken, diced ham, and diced cheddar cheese. Give it a good stir to mix everything together.
3. Add Bacon and Veggies:
Next, gently fold in the crumbled bacon, chopped romaine lettuce, and sliced green onions. These ingredients add a nice crunch and flavor to your salad!
4. Prepare the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Keep mixing until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
5. Toss and Combine:
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss everything together gently. Make sure all the ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing for maximum flavor.
6. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes. This resting time helps all the flavors blend beautifully.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, take the salad out of the fridge. You can garnish it with extra crumbled bacon or more green onions if you’d like. Serve chilled and enjoy your delicious Club Sandwich Pasta Salad!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini is great for holding onto the dressing, you can use any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or bowtie. Just ensure it’s cooked according to the package instructions and cooled before mixing!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt works fantastic as a substitute for mayonnaise. You can also try a mix of sour cream and mustard to keep that creamy texture while adding tanginess.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this pasta salad is perfect for making ahead! You can prepare it a day in advance. Just be sure to keep it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen, making it even more delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It might get a bit dry, so consider adding a splash of extra dressing or a little bit of olive oil before serving again.
