Taco pasta salad –If you’re looking for a delightful and vibrant dish that brings the zest of tacos into a salad form, look no further than Taco Pasta Salad. This recipe combines the hearty texture of pasta with the bold flavors of traditional taco ingredients, resulting in a truly unique meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Taco Pasta Salad
This taco-inspired pasta salad is not only easy to prepare but also offers fantastic flexibility in terms of ingredients. You can customize it according to your preferences or what you have available in your pantry. It’s a definite crowd-pleaser and can be served as a side dish or a main meal.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of shell pasta or your choice of pasta
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 cup lettuce, chopped
- ½ cup diced red onion
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by cooking the shell pasta according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain and set aside to cool.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat. Once browned, drain the excess grease.
- Add the taco seasoning to the meat, following the instructions on the packet. Incorporate water if necessary, then let simmer for about 5 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, seasoned meat, cherry tomatoes, corn, black beans, shredded cheese, lettuce, and red onion.
- Carefully fold in the salsa and sour cream. Mix until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for added flavor and presentation.
- Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy!
This Taco Pasta Salad is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures in every bite. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or even a quick lunch, this dish never fails to impress!