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Southwest Pasta Salad

Vibrant Southwest Pasta Salad for Summer Gatherings

A vibrant Southwest Pasta Salad, customizable and protein-rich, perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Rotini Pasta Feel free to substitute with any medium or short pasta shape.
For the Salad Mix
  • 1 can Black Beans Drain and rinse before adding.
  • 1 cup Corn Canned corn is a convenient choice.
  • 1 medium Bell Pepper Interchangeable with other colorful peppers.
  • 1 small Red Onion Can be swapped for milder green onions.
  • 1 cup Cherry or Grape Tomatoes Diced regular tomatoes work well if needed.
  • 1/4 cup Cilantro Consider omitting or using parsley.
  • 1 cup Grilled Chicken Skip for a vegetarian option.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Chipotle Ranch Dressing You could use traditional ranch or a homemade version.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • mixing bowl
  • spatula

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine black beans, corn, diced bell pepper, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro. If using, add grilled chicken. Gently mix all ingredients until well combined.
  3. Once cooled, add the pasta to the salad mixture. Fold in carefully without mashing ingredients.
  4. Pour the chipotle ranch dressing over the salad. Stir well to coat all ingredients evenly.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld. The longer it sits, the better it tastes.
  6. Before serving, give the salad a quick stir and serve in bowls or on a platter.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 15gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 8gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For best flavor, use fresh vegetables. This salad can be easily scaled up or down for your needs. Store leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

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