Club Sandwich Pasta Salad

Name: Club Sandwich Pasta Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 1 cup cooked chicken, diced; 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup cucumber, diced; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 2 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 tbsp lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

A delicious twist on the classic club sandwich, this pasta salad combines all your favorite ingredients in a refreshing dish perfect for lunch or a summer picnic.

Created by

Lydia Barrett

Last updated on 2025-12-21T00:05:57.967Z

This Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is a fun and satisfying meal that combines the flavors of a classic club sandwich with pasta. It’s perfect for meal prep or to bring along to gatherings.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with flavors reminiscent of your favorite club sandwich
Creamy dressing that brings everything together
Great for meal prep and can be served cold or warm

      

A Unique Take on a Classic

The Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is a delightful fusion of flavors that you typically find in a classic club sandwich. This dish beautifully marries the savory taste of chicken and bacon with the freshness of tomatoes and cucumbers, making it a perfect choice for a light meal or a side dish at gatherings. Its unique blend of ingredients ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor, appealing to both kids and adults alike.

What sets this pasta salad apart is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite ingredients, such as avocado or bell peppers, to create a dish that suits your taste. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, packing a picnic, or looking for a quick lunch option, this pasta salad will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the best aspects of the Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is its adaptability. It can be enjoyed as a light lunch on a busy day or served as a side dish at your next family gathering. The vibrant colors and enticing flavors make it a visually appealing addition to any table. Plus, it can be easily transported, making it an excellent choice for potlucks and picnics.

Additionally, this pasta salad can be prepared in advance, which is a huge time-saver for those with a hectic schedule. Simply make it the night before, and let the flavors meld in the refrigerator overnight. The creamy dressing will help keep the pasta moist, ensuring that it tastes just as delicious the next day.

Health Benefits of the Ingredients

This pasta salad not only tastes great but also offers several health benefits. The combination of chicken and bacon provides protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. Meanwhile, the fresh vegetables add vitamins and minerals, contributing to a balanced diet. Ingredients like cucumber and tomatoes are hydrating and low in calories, making them excellent choices for weight management.

Furthermore, using whole-grain elbow macaroni instead of regular pasta can increase the fiber content, promoting digestive health. The creamy dressing, while indulgent, can be made lighter by substituting Greek yogurt for mayonnaise, adding probiotics to your meal. This way, you can enjoy a delicious dish that also supports your health goals.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni
1 cup cooked chicken, diced
4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all the ingredients well for a delicious meal!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chicken, bacon, tomatoes, cucumber, cheddar cheese, and red onion.

Mix Dressing and Serve

Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your Club Sandwich Pasta Salad!

Storage Tips

To keep your Club Sandwich Pasta Salad fresh longer, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving, as the dressing may settle at the bottom.

If you're planning to make this salad ahead of time, consider adding the dressing just before serving to prevent the pasta from becoming too soggy. You can also store the dressing separately in a small container to maintain the salad's freshness.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta salad pairs beautifully with crusty bread or garlic bread for a more filling meal. You can also serve it alongside grilled vegetables or a light soup for a complete dining experience. For those looking to elevate their meal, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can transform this pasta salad into a wrap by using large lettuce leaves as a base. Simply spoon the salad into the leaves, roll them up, and enjoy a nutritious and portable meal on the go.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

→ What other ingredients can I add?

Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers, or other proteins like turkey or ham for variety.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.