Pasta Club Salad Recipe
This Pasta Club Salad is a perfect blend of savory, tangy, and creamy elements. A delicious combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes comes together in this easy-to-make pasta salad. Ideal for a quick family dinner or a summer potluck, this dish is sure to impress with its simple ingredients and flavorful dressing. Whether served as a main dish or side, this salad is packed with protein and satisfying goodness, making it a delightful choice for any occasion.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless skinless chicken breast | 1 |
| Bacon | 1 |
| Mayonnaise | 1 cup |
| White wine vinegar | 2 tbsp |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp |
| Lettuce | 1 head |
| Tomatoes | 2 |
| Swiss cheese (shredded) | 1 cup |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 624.5 kcal |
| Fat | 24.6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6.1 g |
| Cholesterol | 59.8 mg |
| Sodium | 486.2 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 71.2 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.7 g |
| Sugars | 3.4 g |
| Protein | 27.8 g |
Preparation Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8
Instructions:
-
Cook the Chicken:
- Begin by cooking the boneless skinless chicken breast. You can either grill, bake, or pan-sear it until itโs fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. Once done, let it rest before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
-
Cook the Bacon:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until itโs crispy and golden brown. Once cooked, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to cool, then crumble it into small pieces.
-
Boil the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your preferred pasta (such as rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni) and cook according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
-
Prepare the Dressing:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, white wine vinegar, and lemon juice. Whisk them together until well blended. This creamy dressing will provide the perfect balance of tanginess and richness to the salad.
-
Combine the Salad:
- Add the cooled pasta to the mixing bowl with the dressing. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly with the dressing.
-
Add Chicken and Bacon:
- Gently stir in the cooked chicken and crumbled bacon into the pasta mixture. These ingredients will add flavor and protein to the salad, creating a hearty dish.
-
Chill and Let Flavors Marinate:
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together. This step enhances the taste and makes the salad even more flavorful.
-
Serve:
- To serve, arrange fresh lettuce on a plate, place a generous portion of the pasta salad on top, and garnish with sliced tomatoes for a burst of color and freshness.
-
Top with Swiss Cheese:
- Finish the dish by sprinkling shredded Swiss cheese over the salad. The cheese adds a creamy texture and an extra layer of flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving Suggestions:
This Pasta Club Salad is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside a crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete meal, or enjoy it as a refreshing side dish to grilled meats, burgers, or barbecued items. Itโs also perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a make-ahead dish for busy weeknights.
Enjoy the creamy, crispy, and fresh flavors of this Pasta Club Saladโyour taste buds will thank you!
