The Club Sandwich Pasta Salad Recipe takes all the classic flavors of a club sandwich—crisp bacon, juicy turkey, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomatoes—and combines them with perfectly cooked pasta and a creamy dressing. This dish is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or an easy make-ahead lunch.
With the crunch of bacon, the heartiness of turkey, and the refreshing taste of veggies, this pasta salad is a flavorful twist on the beloved sandwich. Follow this guide to make the ultimate Club Sandwich Pasta Salad with tips, variations, and serving suggestions.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or bowtie)
- 1 cup cooked turkey, diced
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Swiss)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Croutons for garnish (optional)
Preparation
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ranch dressing, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, turkey, bacon, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cheese. Toss with the dressing until evenly coated.
Step 4: Add Lettuce and Serve
Gently fold in the shredded lettuce just before serving to maintain freshness. Top with croutons if desired.
Variations
- Lighter Version: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier option.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace turkey and bacon with chickpeas or hard-boiled eggs.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Extra Crunch: Mix in diced cucumbers or bell peppers for added texture.
Cooking Notes
- Chilling Time: Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
- Pasta Choice: Short pasta like rotini or bowtie works best for absorbing the dressing.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Serving Tip: Toss with a little extra dressing before serving if the pasta has absorbed too much moisture.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Side of Fruit: Serve with fresh fruit or a fruit salad for a balanced meal.
- As a Main Dish: This pasta salad is hearty enough to be a meal on its own.
- With Soup: Pair with a bowl of tomato or chicken soup for a comforting meal.
- For Meal Prep: Divide into individual containers for a grab-and-go lunch.
Club Sandwich Pasta Salad Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and crispy bacon make a huge difference.
- Cook Pasta Properly: Avoid overcooking the pasta to maintain texture.
- Make It Ahead: Prep the salad in advance but add the lettuce right before serving.
- Customize Your Dressing: Mix in a little honey or vinegar for a tangier taste.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 18g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Just add the lettuce right before serving to keep it fresh.
What’s the best pasta to use?
Short pasta like rotini, penne, or bowtie works best as it holds the dressing well.
Can I use a different dressing?
Absolutely! Try Caesar dressing, balsamic vinaigrette, or honey mustard for a twist.
How do I make it creamier?
Add a little more mayonnaise or ranch dressing to adjust the creaminess.
Can I serve this warm?
While best served cold, you can enjoy it slightly warm by skipping the cooling step after cooking the pasta.
Conclusion
The Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that combines the best of both worlds—your favorite sandwich flavors with satisfying pasta. Whether you’re making it for a picnic, potluck, or meal prep, this dish is sure to be a hit. Try different variations to find your perfect combination and enjoy a fresh, flavorful meal every time!
Print
Club Sandwich Pasta Salad
- Total Time: 25 min
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or bowtie)
- 1 cup cooked turkey, diced
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Swiss)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Croutons for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ranch dressing, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, turkey, bacon, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cheese. Toss with the dressing until evenly coated.
Step 4: Add Lettuce and Serve
Gently fold in the shredded lettuce just before serving to maintain freshness. Top with croutons if desired.
Notes
- Chilling Time: Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
- Pasta Choice: Short pasta like rotini or bowtie works best for absorbing the dressing.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Serving Tip: Toss with a little extra dressing before serving if the pasta has absorbed too much moisture.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 10 min
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Protein: 18 g