Club Sandwich Pasta Salad
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
Elevate your appetizer game with this delicious Club Sandwich Pasta Salad. A perfect blend of tender pasta, crisp vegetables, savory meats, and creamy dressing, this salad captures the iconic flavors of a classic club sandwich in every bite. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick lunch, this versatile dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
This Club Sandwich Pasta Salad combines all the elements of a classic club sandwich into a refreshing and hearty salad.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're hosting a summer picnic or looking for a quick weeknight dinner option, this Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that fits any occasion. Its vibrant colors and hearty ingredients make it not only delicious but also visually appealing. Guests will be drawn to its fresh ingredients and classic club sandwich flavors. Additionally, it’s an easy dish to prepare, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your event and less time in the kitchen.
If you're planning a potluck, this pasta salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It serves well in large batches, so you can easily make enough to share with friends, family, or colleagues. Plus, it holds up beautifully, making it an ideal choice for outdoor gatherings. Just keep it chilled until it's time to serve, and watch as everyone goes back for seconds!
Healthier Twist on a Classic
This Club Sandwich Pasta Salad offers a healthier twist on a beloved classic. By incorporating whole ingredients and lean proteins such as shredded chicken and turkey, you can indulge in flavors without compromising on nutrition. The addition of Greek yogurt in the dressing not only reduces the calories but also adds a creamy texture while packing in some extra protein and probiotics.
With nutrient-rich vegetables like cucumbers and cherry tomatoes, you’re not just getting a delicious meal, but also a variety of essential vitamins and minerals. This recipe allows you to enjoy a satisfying and nutritious dish that’s perfect for the health-conscious foodie.
Customize to Your Taste
One of the best aspects of the Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is its adaptability. The base recipe is just the starting point; feel free to add in your favorite ingredients to make it your own. Consider throwing in some diced bell peppers for extra crunch or swapping out the turkey for ham if you prefer. You can even make it vegetarian by omitting the meat entirely and adding more protein-rich beans or cheese.
Also, don’t hesitate to experiment with the dressing! You can substitute the mayonnaise with avocado for a trendier take or add various herbs and spices for an extra flavor boost. This flexibility allows you to tailor the salad to suit your dietary preferences and personal taste effortlessly.
Ingredients
Pasta & Veggies
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
Meats
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup deli turkey, sliced
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt & pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients together for a delicious flavor.
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and cool.
Prepare the Dressing
In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, vegetables, and meats. Pour the dressing over and mix well.
Chill and Serve
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
This salad is best enjoyed chilled.
Serving Suggestions
This Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is great on its own, but there are several ways to serve it that can enhance the overall meal experience. Pair it with a light, crispy green salad or a bowl of fresh fruit for a well-rounded lunch or dinner. For something heartier, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish, allowing the flavors to complement each other beautifully.
Additionally, this salad can be served in various ways. Use it as a filling for wraps or sandwiches for a delightful twist, or serve it alongside some crusty bread for a simple yet satisfying meal. With its rich flavors and textures, it can easily stand as a main dish or as a side.
Storage Tips
To keep your Club Sandwich Pasta Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This salad is best enjoyed within 3-5 days, although the flavors will improve as it sits. Allowing it to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving also helps the flavors meld together nicely.
If you're planning to make it ahead, consider keeping the dressing separate and adding it just before serving to maintain the pasta's texture. This way, you can enjoy the crunch of fresh vegetables and the creaminess of the dressing without any soggy noodles. Enjoy this salad for days to come without losing its delicious appeal!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated.
→ What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
You can use avocado or vinaigrette for a lighter version.
Club Sandwich Pasta Salad
Elevate your appetizer game with this delicious Club Sandwich Pasta Salad. A perfect blend of tender pasta, crisp vegetables, savory meats, and creamy dressing, this salad captures the iconic flavors of a classic club sandwich in every bite. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick lunch, this versatile dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Created by: Lydia Barrett
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: Serves 6
What You'll Need
Pasta & Veggies
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
Meats
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup deli turkey, sliced
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt & pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and cool.
In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, vegetables, and meats. Pour the dressing over and mix well.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 25g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 20g