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Club Sandwich Pasta Salad

This Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is a fun twist on the classic club sandwich. It combines all the delicious flavors you love from a club sandwich—cooked chicken, crispy turkey bacon, juicy tomatoes, fresh lettuce, and creamy dressing—into a pasta salad that’s perfect for a summer lunch or a picnic. The creamy dressing holds everything together and enhances the savory ingredients, making every bite a satisfying treat. With optional add-ins like avocado or pickles, you can make it your own!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Salad:
12 oz pasta (rotini, bowtie, or penne work best): A sturdy pasta that holds onto the flavors and ingredients.
1 1/2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced: Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.
1 cup cooked turkey bacon, crumbled: Adds that smoky, crispy touch.
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Fresh and juicy for a burst of sweetness.
1 cup shredded lettuce: For that classic sandwich crunch.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Brings richness to the dish.
1/2 cup diced red onion: Adds a mild, tangy bite.

For the Dressing:
1/2 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base for the dressing.
1/4 cup sour cream: Adds tang and richness.
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: For a hint of zest.
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar: Brightens the flavors.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a savory depth.
Salt and pepper, to taste.

Optional Add-Ins:
Avocado, diced: For creaminess.
Hard-boiled eggs, chopped: Adds protein and richness.
Pickles, diced: For a tangy crunch.
Fresh herbs (like parsley or dill): For extra freshness.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set aside.

Prepare the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Refrigerate while you assemble the salad.

Combine the Salad Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chicken, turkey bacon, cherry tomatoes, shredded lettuce, cheddar cheese, and red onion. Gently toss to mix.

Add the Dressing
Pour the prepared dressing over the salad. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

Chill and Serve
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Notes

  • For a more classic club sandwich flavor, you can add sliced pickles and hard-boiled eggs to the salad.

  • Make sure to chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the dressing to fully coat and meld with the ingredients.

  • If you’re serving this at a party, it’s a great idea to double the recipe since it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

  • Feel free to swap out the shredded cheddar cheese for another variety of cheese like Swiss or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.