Cowboy Pasta Salad
Cowboy Pasta Salad
Cowboy Pasta Salad is a delightful and colorful dish that brings the flavors of the Southwest right to your table. This fun and hearty salad is perfect for picnics, cookouts, or any casual meal. Packed with fresh veggies, protein-rich black beans, and a creamy dressing, it’s a great way to enjoy a variety of ingredients in one bowl.
Why Make This Recipe
This Cowboy Pasta Salad is not only easy to prepare, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser. It’s a great way to use leftover pasta and ingredients you might already have in your pantry. Plus, it’s healthy and filling, making it an excellent option for lunch or dinner. And with its vibrant colors, it’s sure to brighten up any meal!
How to Make Cowboy Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked pasta (shells or rotini)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (fresh or canned)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, red bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing and lime juice.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Cowboy Pasta Salad
Serve Cowboy Pasta Salad chilled as a main dish or as a side. It pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a light meal on its own. For an extra touch, you can garnish it with more fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of cheese.
How to Store Cowboy Pasta Salad
Store any leftover Cowboy Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 days. If you notice the pasta soaking up the dressing, you may want to add a little more ranch dressing before serving the leftovers.
Tips to Make Cowboy Pasta Salad
- Make sure to cook your pasta al dente so it doesn’t get mushy in the salad.
- Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal taste.
- For added flavor, you can toss in some diced avocado or jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Variation
You can easily switch up the ingredients. Try adding grilled chicken for extra protein, or substitute the black beans with kidney beans. You can also use a different dressing, such as a vinaigrette, if you prefer something lighter.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make Cowboy Pasta Salad ahead of time?
A1: Yes! It’s best to let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving, and it can be made a day ahead too.
Q2: Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?
A2: Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free pasta, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free Cowboy Pasta Salad.
Q3: Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh or canned?
A3: Yes, frozen corn works well! Just thaw it before adding to the salad.
Cowboy Pasta Salad is a simple yet satisfying dish that anyone can make. Enjoy it at your next gathering or as a healthy weeknight meal!
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Cowboy Pasta Salad
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A colorful and hearty pasta salad bringing Southwest flavors, perfect for picnics and casual meals.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta (shells or rotini)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (fresh or canned)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, red bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing and lime juice.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
For added flavor, toss in some diced avocado or jalapeños for a spicy kick. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
