Description
Southwestern Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that has become a staple at summer gatherings, potlucks, and family dinners. This colorful salad combines the bold tastes of the Southwest with the heartiness of pasta, making it a crowd-pleasing favorite.
Ingredients
- Rotini pasta
- Black beans
- Corn
- Red bell pepper
- Red onion
- Cherry tomatoes
- Avocado
- Cilantro
- Mayonnaise
- Sour cream
- Lime juice
- Garlic
- Onion powder
- Smoked paprika
- Chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
Instructions
1. Cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions.
2. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to cool.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, black beans, corn, diced bell pepper, red onion, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and chopped cilantro.
4. Pour the Chipotle Ranch Dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
5. Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Notes
Serving Suggestions: Southwestern Pasta Salad can be served as a main dish or a side. It pairs well with grilled proteins, such as chicken or steak, and can be garnished with extra cilantro, diced avocado, or crumbled feta cheese for added flavor and visual appeal.
Variations: Substitute the rotini pasta with gluten-free or whole wheat options for a healthier version. Vegans can replace the cheese with plant-based alternatives, and those avoiding dairy can omit the sour cream in the dressing and use a non-dairy yogurt instead.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 400
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Unsaturated Fat: 10
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 40
- Fiber: 8
- Protein: 10
- Cholesterol: 10