Combining the hearty elements of a classic club sandwich with the comforting appeal of pasta, this Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that’s sure to please. Featuring tri-color rotini, savory deli meats, crisp bacon, fresh vegetables, and a creamy ranch dressing, it offers a delightful medley of flavors and textures in every bite. Ideal for summer cookouts, potlucks, or as a satisfying family meal, this pasta salad is both easy to prepare and incredibly flavorful. Its make-ahead nature allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste and making it a convenient option for busy schedules.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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12 ounces tri-color rotini pasta
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8 ounces cheddar cheese, cubed
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1 cup cooked bacon, chopped
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1 cup lettuce, chopped
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1 cup deli ham, diced
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1 cup deli turkey, diced
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1 cup mayonnaise
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1 packet ranch seasoning mix
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Directions:
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
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Add the cubed cheddar cheese, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped bacon, chopped lettuce, diced ham, and diced turkey to the bowl with the cooled pasta.
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In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and ranch seasoning mix until well combined.
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Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
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Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
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Cover and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
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Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Club Sandwich Pasta Salad: A Classic Reinvented
The club sandwich is a beloved American classic, known for its layers of turkey, ham, crispy bacon, cheese, and fresh vegetables. But what if you could transform this iconic sandwich into a delicious, hearty pasta salad? Enter the Club Sandwich Pasta Salad a refreshing and flavorful dish that brings together all the best elements of a traditional club sandwich in a convenient, shareable format.
Whether you’re preparing a meal for a picnic, a potluck, or a family dinner, this pasta salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With its creamy dressing, crunchy textures, and satisfying flavors, it’s a perfect choice for those who love both pasta and sandwiches but want something a little different.
Why You’ll Love Club Sandwich Pasta Salad
There are plenty of reasons to love this dish, but here are a few standouts:
- Easy to Make – This recipe requires minimal cooking, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or last-minute meal prep.
- Packed with Flavor – The combination of creamy ranch dressing, smoky bacon, tangy tomatoes, and savory deli meats makes every bite exciting.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Since this pasta salad tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge, it’s a great make-ahead meal.
- Customizable – You can easily adjust the ingredients based on dietary preferences, making it suitable for different tastes and needs.
- Great for Gatherings – Whether you’re serving a crowd at a summer BBQ, a holiday party, or a casual lunch, this pasta salad is always a hit.
The Best Occasions to Serve Club Sandwich Pasta Salad
This dish is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed on a variety of occasions. Some of the best times to serve this salad include:
1. Picnics and Outdoor Gatherings
Since it’s a cold pasta salad, it’s perfect for warm weather. Pack it up in a cooler, and you’re all set for a picnic in the park or a beach day.
2. Potlucks and BBQs
Every potluck needs a star dish, and this pasta salad fits the bill. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with its familiar flavors and creamy texture.
3. Family Dinners
Looking for a quick and easy dinner idea? This salad can be served as a main dish alongside some crusty bread or as a side with grilled chicken.
4. Lunch Meal Prep
Make a batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy it for lunch over the next few days. It stores well and gets even more flavorful as the ingredients meld together.
Customization and Variations
One of the best things about this pasta salad is how easy it is to tweak based on personal preferences and dietary needs. Here are a few variations you might love:
1. Lighter Version
For a healthier take, you can swap out the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or a light vinaigrette. Using whole wheat pasta can also add more fiber to the dish.
2. Vegetarian Option
If you want to make this salad vegetarian, simply omit the bacon, ham, and turkey. Instead, you can add roasted chickpeas, tofu, or extra vegetables for protein.
3. Gluten-Free Alternative
Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. There are many great gluten-free pasta options that work well with this recipe.
4. Spicy Twist
If you enjoy a bit of heat, try adding diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or some hot sauce to the dressing.
5. Different Cheese Choices
While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, you can experiment with Swiss cheese, mozzarella, or even blue cheese for a different flavor profile.
Storage and Serving Tips
To get the best taste and texture, follow these tips when making and storing your Club Sandwich Pasta Salad:
1. Refrigerate Before Serving
Letting the pasta salad sit in the fridge for a few hours helps the flavors meld together. If you can, prepare it the night before serving.
2. Keep Ingredients Fresh
If you plan on storing the salad for a couple of days, keep delicate ingredients like lettuce separate and add them just before serving to prevent wilting.
3. Stir Before Serving
The dressing may settle at the bottom of the bowl, so give the salad a good stir before serving to redistribute the flavors.
4. Store Properly
Keep the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for up to 4 days.
Conclusion:
The Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is the perfect blend of classic sandwich flavors and pasta salad convenience. It’s creamy, crunchy, and packed with delicious ingredients that make every bite satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, meal prepping for the week, or simply looking for a fresh take on a favorite dish, this pasta salad is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.
So the next time you’re craving a club sandwich but want something different, give this pasta salad a try. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and always a crowd favorite!
