Name: Club Sandwich Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz rotini pasta; 6 slices crispy bacon, chopped; 1 cup diced tomatoes (cherry or regular); 2 cups shredded lettuce (iceberg or romaine); 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: 1/2 tsp garlic powder

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As the sun shines and the breeze carries the scent of summer barbecues, nothing brings joy like a refreshing bowl of Club Sandwich Pasta Salad. Imagine al dente pasta mingling with crispy bacon, tangy tomatoes, and crunchy lettuce all coated in a creamy dressing that dances on your taste buds. perfect pairing with pasta salad It’s a dish that not only fills your stomach but also warms your heart, making it perfect for picnics or potlucks.

This Club Sandwich Pasta Salad captures the essence of casual gatherings and family meals, bringing everyone together around a table filled with laughter and good food. Picture yourself at a summer barbecue, friends gathered around as you serve up this colorful salad that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to eat. Your loved ones will be begging for seconds—and maybe even thirds! For more inspiration, check out this Strawberry and Spinach Salad recipe.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is not only quick to prepare but also bursts with flavor in every bite
You can easily customize ingredients based on what you have available at home
Its vibrant colors make it a beautiful addition to any meal spread
Perfect for a picnic or potluck, this salad is versatile enough to serve as a main or side dish

I remember one summer afternoon when I whipped up this dish for an impromptu barbecue. My friends couldn’t get enough of it, and someone even declared it “the best salad ever.” Their reactions made my day!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pasta: Use rotini or fusilli for a fun shape that holds onto the dressing beautifully.
Crispy Bacon: Cook until golden brown for that irresistible crunch in every bite. crispy Southern fried pickles.
Diced Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes add a juicy sweetness; consider using cherry tomatoes for extra color.
Shredded Lettuce: Iceberg or romaine gives that classic club sandwich feel—crisp and refreshing.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar adds creamy richness; feel free to experiment with other varieties. rich homemade Bolognese sauce.
Mayonnaise: The base of the dressing; adjust according to your preference for creaminess.
Dijon Mustard: A spoonful adds zest and balances the creaminess of the mayo.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder enhance all flavors without overwhelming them.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water.

Crisp the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon pieces until they’re crispy and golden brown. Once cooked, transfer them to paper towels to absorb excess grease.

Prepare the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and garlic powder if desired. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Combine Ingredients: In the bowl with the dressing, add cooled pasta along with diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, cheese, and crispy bacon. Toss gently until everything is well coated.

Chill and Serve!: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld beautifully.

This Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is just waiting to become your new favorite. Enjoy every bite!

You Must Know

This Club Sandwich Pasta Salad combines the classic flavors of a club sandwich with the ease of a pasta salad
It’s perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or a light weeknight dinner
The vibrant colors and textures make it visually delightful on any table

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta until al dente, then chop and prep all your ingredients while it cools down. This ensures everything is ready to mix together seamlessly.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out proteins like turkey or bacon for chicken or even plant-based options. delicious chicken enchiladas Toss in some bell peppers or olives for extra flavor and crunch. For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Tenders With Garlic Parmesan recipe.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Enjoy it cold straight from the fridge or let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Don’t overcook your pasta; it should have a nice bite to balance creamy ingredients
Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor and brightness
A splash of lemon juice can elevate the dressing and freshness of the dish

I once made this salad for a family gathering, and my aunt declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” Now that’s a compliment worth savoring!

FAQ

What is a Club Sandwich Pasta Salad?

This dish combines classic club sandwich ingredients with pasta for a delicious twist.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance; just store it in the fridge.

What are good add-ins for this salad?

Consider adding cucumbers, cheese, or different meats to customize your Club Sandwich Pasta Salad.

Club Sandwich Pasta Salad