Did you know that pasta salads have been a picnic favorite for over 100 years? I love how versatile they can be, especially when you add a Southwest twist. This Southwestern Pasta Salad combines hearty pasta with bold flavors like black beans, corn, and a zesty lime dressing. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion. The best part? You can customize it to suit your taste. Let’s explore how to make it your new go-to dish.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Southwestern Pasta Salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s quick to prepare and packed with fresh, zesty ingredients.
- Bursting with bold flavors from black beans, corn, and a tangy lime dressing.
- Easy to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins.
- Ideal for meal prep, picnics, or as a revitalizing side dish.
Recipe
This Southwestern Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the heartiness of pasta with the bold tastes of the Southwest. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick weeknight meal, it’s easy to prepare and packed with fresh ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta (rotini or penne)
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let it cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, bell pepper, cilantro, and avocado.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese and gently mix.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes:
- For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Substitute feta or cotija cheese for cheddar if desired.
- Best served fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Serving: 6
Calories: 380 per serving
Cuisine: Southwestern
Nutrition
This Southwestern Pasta Salad is a flavorful and nutritious dish perfect for any occasion. Below is the nutritional information per serving.
| Calories | Protein (g) | Carbohydrates (g) | Fat (g) | Fiber (g) | Sodium (mg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 320 | 12 | 45 | 10 | 4 | 480 |
What To Serve With It
When I’m serving this Southwestern Pasta Salad, I love pairing it with dishes that complement its bold flavors without stealing the spotlight. Grilled chicken is my go-to—it’s simple, juicy, and adds protein without overpowering the salad. I also can’t resist warm, crispy garlic bread on the side; it’s perfect for soaking up any extra dressing. Together, they make a meal that’s satisfying and full of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, I can make this ahead of time! Prep tips like chilling it overnight let the flavors meld for better flavor enhancement. I’ll just keep the dressing separate until serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.
How Long Does This Pasta Salad Last in the Fridge?
I’ve wondered how long this dish lasts in the fridge, so I researched its shelf life. With proper storage tips like airtight containers, it stays fresh for 3-5 days—giving me the flexibility to enjoy it later.
Can I Substitute the Pasta With a Different Type?
I’ll always swap out pasta alternatives to make salad variations that feel right for me. Quinoa, couscous, or even zoodles work if I’m craving something lighter or gluten-free—it’s my salad, so I’ll make it my way.
Is This Recipe Gluten-Free or Can It Be Made Gluten-Free?
Sailing through the sea of dietary needs, I’d say this recipe isn’t gluten-free as is, but it can be! Swap in gluten-free brands for pasta and double-check alternative ingredients to keep it safe and liberating.
Can I Add Extra Vegetables to the Recipe?
Absolutely, I can add extra vegetables to make it my own. I’ll get creative with vegetable combinations like roasted bell peppers or zucchini to boost the nutritional value enhancement while keeping it fresh and flavorful.
