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Instructions for Making Club Sandwich Pasta Salad
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set aside to drain completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the other ingredients:
- Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it into bite-sized pieces.
- Cook the chicken breast (or use leftover rotisserie chicken) and dice it into cubes.
- Chop the vegetables: slice the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and finely chop the red onion (if using).
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, yellow mustard, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more salt or pepper if necessary.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- Pour the dressing over the ingredients and toss everything together until evenly coated.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- For the best flavor, let the pasta salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the pasta salad cold as a side dish, main course, or a light lunch.
Tips for the Best Club Sandwich Pasta Salad
- Make it ahead: This pasta salad is perfect for meal prep! Prepare it the day before and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will develop even more overnight.
- Switch up the protein: While chicken and bacon are classic club sandwich ingredients, feel free to experiment. You could add turkey, ham, or even crispy tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Add extra veggies: Want to make it even more colorful and nutritious? Add some bell peppers, avocado, or spinach to the mix!
- Adjust the dressing: If you prefer a tangier dressing, add a little more mustard or a splash of vinegar. For a creamier option, increase the amount of mayonnaise.
- Pasta choices: While rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni work best for holding the creamy dressing, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape—fusilli or bowtie pasta also make great options!
Why This Pasta Salad is a Game-Changer
This Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is a game-changer because it takes all the best parts of a club sandwich—the savory bacon, tender chicken, creamy mayo, and fresh veggies—and transforms them into a refreshing, satisfying pasta salad. The result is a meal that’s not only packed with flavor but also incredibly easy to make and customize to your liking. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue, bringing it to a potluck, or just enjoying a quick meal at home, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Final Thoughts
With its rich, creamy dressing and delightful combination of savory ingredients, Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is a fun twist on the classic sandwich that you’ll want to make again and again. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for any occasion—from family dinners to picnics in the park. So next time you’re craving a club sandwich but want something a little more filling, give this pasta salad a try—you won’t regret it!
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