Club Sandwich Pasta Salad

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Description
This Club Sandwich Pasta Salad combines the delicious elements of a classic club sandwich — turkey, bacon, cheese, and fresh veggies — with pasta for a fun and satisfying salad. It’s tossed in a creamy dressing that brings all the flavors together, making it a perfect dish for summer gatherings or anytime you crave a hearty, flavorful salad.

Origin
The club sandwich, a popular American classic, has inspired many variations over the years. This pasta salad version captures the essence of a club sandwich in a refreshing and easy-to-eat format.

Ingredients Quantity (serves 6-8)

12 oz (340g) rotini or elbow macaroni pasta (or any short pasta)
1 ½ cups cooked turkey or chicken, diced
1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup cucumber, diced
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

For the dressing:
½ cup mayonnaise
½ cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredients Optional
1 tablespoon of chopped pickles or relish for added tang
A dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick
Avocado slices for extra creaminess
Olives for an extra savory flavor
Chopped lettuce for more crunch, if desired

Instruction
Cook the pasta:
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.

Prepare the dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), Dijon mustard, lemon juice (or vinegar), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Assemble the salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced turkey or chicken, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and chopped red onion.

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is well coated. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Chill and Serve:
Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled.

Tips for Success
Make sure to let the pasta cool completely before tossing it with the other ingredients, or the dressing may separate.
If you want a tangier flavor, you can use a bit more Dijon mustard or lemon juice in the dressing.
Add or omit ingredients based on your preferences (e.g., more veggies, extra protein, or a different cheese).

Recommendation
Serve this club sandwich pasta salad with a side of fresh fruit, chips, or a light soup for a complete meal. It’s great for BBQs, potlucks, or meal prep.

Nutrition (Per serving, approx. 8 servings)
Calories: 350–400 kcal
Fat: 20–25g
Carbohydrates: 30–35g
Protein: 12–15g
Sugar: 3–5g
Cholesterol: 50–70mg
Sodium: 450–500mg

Would you like a vegetarian version with more veggies or a creamy pesto dressing instead of the mayo-based one? Let me know!

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