This Club Sandwich Pasta Salad combines pasta, turkey, bacon, and veggies in a creamy dressing. Perfect for picnics, parties, or lunch!
Introduction
Club sandwiches are a beloved classic, and this Club Sandwich Pasta Salad takes all those delicious flavors and transforms them into a hearty, flavorful dish. With tender pasta, crisp bacon, juicy turkey, fresh veggies, and a tangy dressing, it’s a crowd-pleasing option for potlucks, barbecues, or a quick lunch.
This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize the ingredients to your taste. It combines the comforting textures of pasta with the crunch and freshness of sandwich toppings, making it the perfect fusion dish. Whether served as a side or main dish, this pasta salad will be a hit at your next gathering.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 8 ounces rotini or bowtie pasta
- 1 cup cooked turkey or chicken, diced
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
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
Directions
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and red wine vinegar.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Assemble the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, turkey, bacon, cherry tomatoes, lettuce, cheddar cheese, and red onion.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
4. Chill and Serve:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Serve cold, garnished with additional bacon or cheese if desired.
How to Prepare
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies and high-quality turkey make all the difference.
- Cook Bacon Until Crisp: Crisp bacon adds a delightful crunch to the salad.
- Make It Ahead: This salad tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings
Serves 6-8.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Bowtie, penne, or macaroni all work well for this recipe.
2. Can I substitute turkey with another protein?
Absolutely. Try cooked chicken, ham, or even a vegetarian option like chickpeas.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add lettuce just before serving to maintain its crunch.
4. Can I make it lighter?
Yes, swap the mayo and sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier dressing.
5. Can I add more veggies?
Of course! Cucumbers, bell peppers, or avocados are great additions.
Conclusion
Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is the perfect blend of hearty and fresh, offering all the beloved flavors of a classic club sandwich in a bowl. The combination of pasta, turkey, bacon, and veggies, tied together with a creamy dressing, is guaranteed to please both kids and adults alike.
Ideal for picnics, potlucks, or simple weeknight dinners, this pasta salad is versatile, easy to make, and full of flavor. Try it out for your next gathering, and watch it disappear in no time!
