Southwestern Pasta Salad

Southwestern Pasta Salad is a delicious and refreshing dish that combines the flavors of the American Southwest with the convenience of a pasta salad. This dish is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or any summer gathering, as it can be served cold and is easy to make in advance. The combination of pasta, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing creates a dish that is both satisfying and full of vibrant flavors.

Southwestern Pasta Salad
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Prep Time:

20 mins

Cook Time:

10 mins

Total Time:

30 mins

Servings:

8

Ingredients

Southwestern Pasta Salad
8 ounces rotini pasta
⅓ cup vegetable oil
¼ cup fresh lime juice
2 tablespoons chili powder, or to taste
2 teaspoons ground cumin, or to taste
½ teaspoon salt
2 cloves garlic, crushed
1 ½ cups whole kernel corn
1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
½ cup diced green bell pepper
½ cup diced red bell pepper
½ cup fresh cilantro leaves
1 cup chopped roma (plum) tomatoes

Directions

Southwestern Pasta Salad

Step 1

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes; drain.

Step 2

Combine oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and garlic in a large bowl. Stir in pasta; set aside to cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally.

Step 3

Stir in corn, beans, green pepper, red pepper and 1/2 of the cilantro leaves. Spoon onto a platter and garnish with tomatoes and remaining cilantro. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

240

Calories

10g

Fat

31g

Carbs

8g

Protein

Complement

The key to a great Southwestern Pasta Salad is the combination of ingredients. Typically, this dish includes cooked pasta, black beans, corn, bell peppers, tomatoes, and avocado, all tossed in a tangy and spicy dressing. The dressing often includes ingredients such as lime juice, cilantro, cumin, and chili powder, adding a kick of flavor to the salad. This dish can also be customized to suit individual preferences, with the addition of ingredients such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or cheese. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, Southwestern Pasta Salad is sure to be a hit at any gathering.