Club Sandwich Pasta Salad Recipe
Introduction:
The Club Sandwich Pasta Salad takes all the savory flavors of the classic club sandwich and transforms them into a refreshing, easy-to-make pasta salad. This dish is perfect for a summer picnic, potluck, barbecue, or even a quick lunch at home. It’s a delightful combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and creamy dressing all nestled within bite-sized pasta. The best part is, it can be made ahead, making it an ideal dish for gatherings or a busy weeknight.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta (rotini, bowtie, or penne works best)
- 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
History of the Club Sandwich:
The classic club sandwich, a towering triple-decker of toasted bread, turkey or chicken, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise, is an iconic dish in American cuisine. Its origins are debated, but it’s commonly believed that the club sandwich first appeared in the late 19th century at a gentlemen’s club in New York. Over the years, this sandwich evolved into a staple on diner menus across the country and has been a beloved comfort food ever since. The pasta salad version takes the familiar flavors and puts them into a more portable and lighter dish without sacrificing any of the taste.
Method:
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to cool it down quickly. Set the pasta aside in a large mixing bowl.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, white wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste, depending on your preference for tanginess and creaminess. You can also add a little more mustard or vinegar for an extra zing.
- Combine the Salad Ingredients: To the pasta in the mixing bowl, add the diced chicken, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, shredded lettuce, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced red onion. Gently toss to combine all the ingredients together.
- Add the Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta mixture and toss everything gently to coat. Be sure that every ingredient is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least an hour, allowing the flavors to meld. You can even make it a day ahead for convenience.
Formation of the Dish:
This Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is formed by bringing together the familiar, comforting elements of a traditional club sandwich and reworking them into a chilled, pasta-based dish. It maintains the key flavor components—chicken, bacon, lettuce, tomato, cheese, and a creamy dressing—while incorporating pasta as the base. The final dish is easy to make, flexible, and can be served as a main or side dish.
Methods for Serving:
This pasta salad is a great option for any casual gathering. Here are some serving ideas:
- Potlucks & Barbecues: Serve it chilled alongside grilled meats, burgers, or even on its own.
- Picnics: Pack it in individual containers for a portable, no-fuss meal.
- Family Lunches: This pasta salad can be made in large batches to serve the whole family. Pair it with some fresh fruit for a light, balanced meal.
- Buffets: It works well as a side dish or salad option at any buffet or catered event.
Conclusion:
The Club Sandwich Pasta Salad brings together the nostalgic flavors of the classic sandwich and makes it more versatile and convenient in the form of a pasta salad. With ingredients like chicken, bacon, cheddar cheese, lettuce, and a creamy dressing, it’s a delicious and satisfying dish that will please both adults and kids alike. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a casual meal, this pasta salad is sure to be a hit wherever it’s served. Plus, its versatility means you can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences—add some avocado for extra creaminess, or swap the chicken for turkey for a more traditional sandwich flavor.
Lovers of the Dish:
This pasta salad will be loved by anyone who enjoys the savory, satisfying flavors of a club sandwich. It’s a great option for those who love:
- Comfort Food: For those who can’t resist a club sandwich, this dish is a fun and lighter alternative.
- Cold Salads: Ideal for those who love pasta salads or cold, creamy side dishes.
- Meal Preppers: It’s easy to make in advance and keeps well in the fridge for a few days.
- Families: It’s a family-friendly dish, appealing to both adults and children.
Enjoy this delicious twist on the traditional club sandwich, transformed into a fresh and satisfying pasta salad!