Southwestern Pasta Salad

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This Southwestern Pasta Salad is a total crowd-pleaser, packing bold flavors and fresh ingredients into every bite. It’s easy to make, perfect for potlucks, and sure to become a summer favorite.

• Bursting with flavor: The zesty lime dressing, smoky spices, and crunchy veggies create a flavor explosion that’s both invigorating and satisfying.
• Quick and easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip this up in no time, leaving you more moments to enjoy with family and friends.
• Versatile and customizable: Add your favorite proteins or swap in different veggies to make it your own—it’s practically foolproof!

Recipe

Southwestern Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner. It combines the zest of Southwestern cuisine with the simplicity of a pasta salad, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz pasta (rotini or penne)
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned)
• 1 cup black beans (rinsed and drained)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1/2 cup red onion (finely chopped)
• 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped)
• 1 avocado (diced)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, corn, black beans, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, avocado, and cheddar cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled.

Notes:

• Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
• Adjust the level of chili powder to suit your spice preference.
• For a creamier texture, mix in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.

Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes (plus chilling time)

Serving:

Serves 6

Calories:

Approximately 350 calories per serving

Cuisine:

Southwestern, American

Nutrition

Pasta salads are a versatile dish that can be packed with nutrients. Here’s the nutritional breakdown for a serving of Southwestern Pasta Salad:

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my Southwestern Pasta Salad with grilled chicken, adding a smoky, hearty touch that balances the flavors perfectly. A side of fresh veggies, like crisp bell peppers or juicy cherry tomatoes, brings a rejuvenating crunch to the meal. Both options make the dish feel complete while keeping it light and satisfying.

Grilled Chicken Options

Pairing grilled chicken with the right sides can turn a simple meal into something special. I love how the smoky grilled flavor of the chicken complements the bold, zesty notes of a Southwestern pasta salad. To enhance the chicken, I often use a simple chicken marinade with lime juice, garlic, and chili powder—it adds a tangy kick that ties everything together. Grilling the chicken keeps it juicy and adds a charred depth that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re serving it sliced on top or alongside the salad, it’s a combo that’s both satisfying and full of flavor.

Fresh Vegetable Pairings

Grilled chicken and Southwestern pasta salad are great, but fresh veggies can take the meal to the next level. I love pairing it with seasonal vegetable suggestions like crisp bell peppers, juicy cherry tomatoes, or sweet corn. They add color and crunch that’s hard to resist. For a fresh herb combination, I’ll toss in cilantro or parsley, which brighten up the dish. Sometimes, I’ll even add avocado slices for creaminess. It’s amazing how a few simple additions can make the meal feel complete. Trust me, these veggies don’t just look good—they make every bite even more delicious!