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Club Sandwich Pasta Salad Recipe

4.6 from 137 reviews

This Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is a delicious and hearty twist on the classic club sandwich, combining cooked pasta, chicken, bacon, fresh veggies, and a creamy tangy dressing. Perfect for a picnic, potluck, or a quick meal, it offers a satisfying blend of textures and flavors with crunchy toasted bread cubes and a zesty dressing.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 3 cups cooked pasta (rotini or penne work well)
  • 1 cup cooked chicken breast, cubed
  • 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup chopped romaine lettuce
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup cubed toasted bread (or croutons)

Dressing Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Garnish

  • Chopped fresh parsley or chives

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined. Set this dressing aside to let the flavors meld.
  2. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, cubed cooked chicken breast, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, chopped romaine lettuce, and shredded cheddar cheese. Gently mix these ingredients together to distribute evenly.
  3. Add the Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta salad mixture. Using a spatula or large spoon, gently toss the salad until all components are coated evenly with the dressing.
  4. Incorporate Crunch: Just before serving, fold in the toasted bread cubes or croutons to maintain their crunchiness. This adds a delightful texture contrast to the salad.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the pasta salad with freshly chopped parsley or chives if desired. Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature for best flavor and freshness.

Notes

  • Use rotini or penne pasta for better dressing adherence and texture.
  • To save time, use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken.
  • Toast bread cubes until golden brown for extra crunch.
  • The salad can be made a few hours ahead but add the bread cubes just before serving to keep them crisp.
  • Adjust seasoning as needed after tossing with dressing.
  • This salad pairs well with iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing meal.

Keywords: club sandwich pasta salad, chicken pasta salad, bacon pasta salad, easy pasta salad recipe, creamy pasta salad