This colorful Southwestern pasta salad is a fun mix of pasta, black beans, corn, bell peppers, and zesty dressing. It’s refreshing and perfect for warm days or any picnic!
I love how easy it is to make! Just cook the pasta, toss in everything, and you’re ready to enjoy. It’s a crowd-pleaser and a great way to use up any veggies in the fridge!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: I love using rotini because it holds the dressing well and adds a fun twist. If you don’t have rotini, feel free to use penne or bowtie pasta instead, as they will also work great!
Chicken: Adding chicken is optional, but it makes the salad more filling. If you want a vegetarian option, just leave it out or substitute it with some diced avocado for creaminess!
Black Beans: They add protein and texture. If you want a different flavor, you can swap black beans for kidney beans or chickpeas.
Corn: Fresh corn is wonderful, but frozen corn works just as well. You can also use roasted corn for an added smoky flavor.
Bell Peppers: Green bell pepper adds a nice crunch. Red or yellow bell peppers are sweeter and can be used instead if you prefer a milder taste.
How Do I Get the Dressing Just Right?
Getting the dressing balanced is key to a tasty pasta salad. My trick is to mix the mayo with fresh lime juice for brightness and spices for flavor. Make sure to taste it as you mix, adding more salt, pepper, or lime juice to suit your taste.
- Start by whisking the mayo and lime juice together in a bowl until well combined.
- Add in cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. These spices give the dressing a lovely Southwestern kick!
- Season with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust as needed. You want it to be flavorful enough to complement the pasta and veggies.
Letting the salad sit in the fridge allows all those flavors to combine beautifully, so don’t skip that step! Enjoy your salad chilled or at room temperature for best results.
Easy Southwestern Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 3 cups rotini pasta (uncooked)
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced (optional)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen and thawed)
- 1 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (plus extra for garnish)
For the dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Southwestern pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll want to refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving. In total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes, including chilling time, making it a quick and easy dish perfect for gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (tender but still firm). Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This will help it cool down and prevent it from becoming mushy. Set it aside.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, gather your cooked and cooled pasta. Add in the diced chicken (if using), cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, green bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro. This colorful mix is vibrant and bursting with flavor!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lime juice, ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper until everything is well blended. The dressing should be creamy and flavorful; feel free to taste it and adjust the seasonings to your liking!
4. Mix and Coat:
Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Use a large spoon to gently toss everything together until the pasta and veggies are evenly coated with the dressing. Don’t rush this step; you want every bite to be delicious!
5. Garnish & Chill:
If desired, sprinkle some additional chopped cilantro on top for a finishing touch. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
6. Serve:
After chilling, give the pasta salad a gentle stir before serving. It can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, perfect for a side dish or a light meal. Enjoy your flavorful and easy Southwestern pasta salad!
FAQ for Easy Southwestern Pasta Salad
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular rotini pasta with gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to follow the package instructions, as gluten-free pasta may have different cooking times. Enjoy the same delicious flavors without gluten!
How Long Does This Pasta Salad Last in the Fridge?
This pasta salad can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. However, the vegetables may soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed within the first couple of days for optimal freshness!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this salad vegan by omitting the chicken and mayonnaise. Instead, use a vegan mayonnaise or a simple dressing of olive oil, lime juice, and spices for a tasty alternative. You’ll still get all the delicious flavors!
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
The beauty of this salad is its versatility! You can add diced avocado for creaminess, jalapeños for heat, or even chopped cucumbers for crunch. Feel free to get creative with your favorite veggies or whatever you have on hand!
