Cowboy Pasta Salad
Cowboy Pasta Salad is a hearty and colorful dish combining pasta, beans, corn, and a zesty dressing, perfect for picnics and barbecues.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 3/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, and cilantro.
- In a small bowl, whisk together ranch dressing, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to combine.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to enhance flavors.
- Serve cold or at room temperature, garnished with extra cilantro if desired.
Notes
For extra kick, add a diced jalapeño or a splash of hot sauce. This salad also pairs well with grilled meats.