Southwestern pasta salad –Discover the delightful flavors of Southwestern Pasta Salad. This vibrant and hearty dish combines the richness of pasta with a medley of fresh ingredients, resulting in a refreshing salad that’s perfect for any gathering or a light meal. Below, you will find the details to create your own Southwestern Pasta Salad.
Southwestern Pasta Salad
This recipe offers an explosion of tastes and textures that will transport you to the sunny Southwest with every bite. Ideal for potlucks or as a quick weeknight dinner, it’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces spiral pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the spiral pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, red onion, bell pepper, and cilantro.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss and adjust seasoning if necessary.
This Southwestern Pasta Salad not only bursts with flavor but also is packed with nutrients. Whether served as a main dish or a side, it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings a sense of warmth and festivity to any table. Enjoy your culinary creation and the compliments that are sure to follow!