This Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is a fun twist on a classic! It’s filled with pasta, turkey, ham, cheese, and fresh veggies, all tossed in a creamy dressing that makes it super tasty.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Rotini is great because its shape holds sauce well. Fusilli is another good option! If you want a lighter dish, use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta instead.
Cooked Chicken: Leftover chicken works perfectly. You can also substitute turkey, or even use grilled chicken for a smoky flavor. For a vegetarian option, try roasted chickpeas!
Ham: Diced ham is classic, but you can swap it for cooked and diced turkey or salami if you prefer. If you’re looking for a meat-free option, omit the ham or replace it with firm tofu.
Bacon: Crumbled bacon adds crunch. If you want a healthier option, try turkey bacon or omitting it altogether. You could even use croutons for added crunch!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar gives a nice tang. You can substitute with colby jack, pepper jack for a kick, or even skip cheese for a dairy-free version.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta just right is important to avoid a mushy salad. To achieve this, follow these steps:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add rotini and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- Taste a piece a minute or two before the time is up. It should be tender but still firm to the bite.
- Once cooked, drain pasta and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
This technique helps keep your pasta salad refreshing and pleasant to eat!
How to Make Club Sandwich Pasta Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or fusilli)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced (or turkey)
- 1 cup ham, diced
- 1 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, cubed
- 1 cup green bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup lettuce, chopped
- Optional: 1/4 cup green onions, sliced for garnish
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 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 additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In total, you’ll need about 45 minutes before it’s ready to serve! It’s quick and easy to whip up, making it an excellent choice for lunch or a party dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta (or fusilli) and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (just tender but still firm). Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water to cool it down. This stops the cooking process and helps prevent it from getting soggy.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with diced chicken, diced ham, crumbled bacon, cubed cheddar cheese, diced green bell pepper, and chopped lettuce. Gently stir everything together to combine all the ingredients evenly—this will make sure every bite is delicious!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate smaller bowl, mix the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and creamy. This will be the perfect tangy flavor to complement your pasta salad!
4. Combine Salad and Dressing:
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mixture and toss it gently to coat everything evenly. Make sure all ingredients are well mixed—this is where the magic happens!
5. Taste and Garnish:
Give your pasta salad a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you want a little extra color and flavor, sprinkle sliced green onions over the top for garnish. They add a nice crunch!
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This cooling time allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together. Once chilled, give it one last gentle stir before serving. Enjoy your refreshing Club Sandwich Pasta Salad!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini or fusilli works great, you can substitute with any pasta shape you have on hand, like penne or farfalle. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary slightly between different types of pasta.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for make-ahead meals! You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. Just follow the instructions and store it in the fridge. The flavors will actually enhance as they sit, but remember to give it a good stir before serving.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If the pasta absorbs too much dressing and becomes dry, you can add a little extra mayonnaise or sour cream to revive it.
What Can I Use Instead of Mayo?
If you’d like a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. It adds a nice tangy flavor and still keeps the salad creamy. You can also mix yogurt with a little olive oil for a silkier texture!
