Description

Transform the flavors of a classic club sandwich into a refreshing and hearty pasta salad. This versatile dish combines tender pasta with savory meats, crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and creamy dressing for a satisfying meal or side dish. Ideal for potlucks, picnics, or quick weekday lunches, it’s easy to make and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

• 12 oz tri-color rotini pasta
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, cubed or shredded
• 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (or real bacon bits)
• 1 cup lettuce, chopped
• 1/2 cup ham slices, chopped
• 1/2 cup turkey slices, chopped
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Preparation Method

Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tri-color rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Transfer the pasta to a large mixing bowl.

Combine the Ingredients:
Add the cheddar cheese, cherry or grape tomatoes, cooked bacon, chopped lettuce, ham, and turkey to the bowl with the pasta. These ingredients bring together the familiar flavors of a classic sandwich, making each bite hearty and satisfying.

Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise and ranch seasoning until smooth and well combined. This creamy dressing ties all the ingredients together and adds a burst of flavor.

Mix and Chill:
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight. Chilling the salad allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.

Serve:
Before serving, taste the salad and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Toss gently to redistribute the dressing and ingredients. Serve chilled and enjoy as a main course or a side dish.

Tips and Conclusion

Add avocado chunks for a creamy texture and extra flavor.

Use rotisserie chicken instead of turkey for a quick substitution.

Swap ranch seasoning with Italian seasoning for a different twist.

Include diced pickles or olives for a tangy kick.

To make it lighter, substitute half the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.

This Sandwich Pasta Salad is a delightful fusion of classic sandwich flavors and pasta salad convenience. Perfect for gatherings or meal prep, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize. Explore more recipes for versatile and flavorful dishes to elevate your culinary repertoire!