Name: Mexican Pasta Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: Pasta Salad: 16 oz (450 g) pasta, such as rotini or elbow macaroni; 2 medium ears of corn or 1 cup charred corn kernels; 3 bell peppers (red, green, yellow), diced; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1/2 small red onion, diced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 large avocado, diced; 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta as an alternative); Creamy Taco Dressing: 3/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 1/2 cups sour cream or Greek yogurt; 3 tbsp taco seasoning; 4 tsp fresh lime juice; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 3/4 tsp salt

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This Mexican Pasta Salad is a feast of color and flavor! A combination of zesty taco seasoning, creamy dressing, and fresh veggies like corn, bell peppers, and avocado make it perfect for summer gatherings. The black beans add a satisfying protein boost, while cotija cheese and fresh cilantro round out the Tex-Mex taste. Ideal for BBQs, picnics, or a casual family dinner, this salad brings a refreshing, bold flavor to the table. You can easily prepare it ahead of time, letting the flavors meld in the fridge. Serve it chilled as a standout side dish or even a light vegetarian main!

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

Pasta Salad:
- 16 oz (450 g) pasta, such as rotini or elbow macaroni
- 2 medium ears of corn or 1 cup charred corn kernels
- 3 bell peppers (red, green, yellow), diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 small red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 large avocado, diced
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta as an alternative)
Creamy Taco Dressing:
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 1/2 cups sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 3 tbsp taco seasoning
- 4 tsp fresh lime juice
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3/4 tsp salt

Directions:

Boil a large pot of salted water, add the pasta, and cook as per package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool and set aside.
(Optional) Char the corn by cutting off kernels and cooking them in a skillet with oil until tender and lightly charred, about 10-15 minutes. Let cool.
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, taco seasoning, lime juice, garlic, and salt until smooth.
In a large bowl, combine the pasta, corn, bell peppers, black beans, red onion, cilantro, avocado, and cherry tomatoes.
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently until fully coated. Sprinkle with cotija cheese and additional cilantro if desired.
Serve immediately, or refrigerate for at least an hour for flavors to meld.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 402 kcal per serving | Servings: 12 servings

A Flavorful Fusion: Mexican Pasta Salad Background

Mexican Pasta Salad brings together the best of Italian and Mexican cuisines, uniting vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients from both traditions. Pasta salad itself became popular in the U.S. in the mid-20th century, as Italian immigrants introduced Americans to pasta’s versatility. Adding a Mexican twist with ingredients like creamy avocado, black beans, charred corn, and a taco-seasoned dressing adds a new dimension to the classic pasta salad, making it an irresistible blend of textures and flavors.

This salad, made with a creamy dressing and taco seasoning, reflects flavors often found in Mexican cuisine, such as cumin, chili powder, garlic, and lime. Cotija cheese, the Mexican alternative to feta, lends a salty edge to balance the creamy textures, while the corn, black beans, and avocado provide both nutrients and a refreshing quality that lightens the dish.

Nutritional Benefits of Key Ingredients

The Mexican Pasta Salad is not only tasty but also offers a range of health benefits. Here’s a quick look at the nutritional benefits of its star ingredients:

Black Beans – Packed with protein, fiber, and antioxidants, black beans offer plant-based protein and are excellent for digestive health. They keep you feeling full, adding to the salad’s nutritional value without excess calories.
Avocado – Known for its creamy texture, avocado is a powerhouse of healthy fats, specifically monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. It’s also rich in potassium, fiber, and vitamins C, E, and K.
Corn – A staple in Mexican cuisine, corn provides a mild sweetness and smoky flavor, especially when charred. High in fiber, corn is also rich in essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin B and magnesium, contributing to its wholesome appeal.
Cotija Cheese – Adding a small amount of cotija cheese not only enhances the taste but also brings in calcium and protein. Cotija’s saltiness allows you to use less overall salt while still achieving a well-seasoned dish.
Bell Peppers and Tomatoes – Both bring antioxidants like vitamin C and A, promoting immune health and skin health. Bell peppers add crunch and a slightly sweet flavor, while cherry tomatoes lend a juicy texture and natural sweetness.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

The Mexican Pasta Salad has an edge over other salads due to its versatility and balanced flavor profile:

Texture Variety: The contrast between the creamy dressing, soft pasta, and crunchy bell peppers keeps each bite interesting. Avocado and cotija cheese add creaminess that balances well with the refreshing crunch from the charred corn and fresh veggies.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This salad works perfectly as a side dish for summer barbecues or as a vegetarian main. With flavors familiar to most people yet excitingly unique, it’s a crowd-pleaser. The blend of creamy and zesty flavors pairs well with other grilled or spiced foods, making it ideal for any gathering.
Simple Ingredients with Maximum Flavor: With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe doesn’t require much kitchen expertise. The taco-seasoned dressing elevates basic ingredients, creating a balanced yet bold flavor without needing to source exotic spices.
Make-Ahead and Meal Prep Friendly: The salad can be prepared in advance, making it a go-to for potlucks, picnics, and packed lunches. Refrigeration lets the flavors meld, and because it’s served chilled, it’s a refreshing option on hot days.

Ideal Pairings

Mexican Pasta Salad pairs exceptionally well with various proteins and summer favorites. Here are a few ideas:

Grilled Proteins: Try serving this pasta salad alongside grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp, as the smoky flavors of the grill complement the tangy, creamy dressing.
Tex-Mex Classics: Pair it with dishes like tacos, carne asada, or fajitas to offer a unique side that ties in beautifully with other Mexican-inspired dishes.
Light Refreshing Sides: For a lighter meal, serve this salad with other chilled dishes like gazpacho or a simple green salad to create a refreshing summer spread.

Easy Customizations for Dietary Needs

The Mexican Pasta Salad is highly adaptable. Here are a few ways you can modify it to meet specific dietary requirements:

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pasta such as chickpea or rice pasta to make the dish suitable for gluten-intolerant guests.
Dairy-Free and Vegan: Swap the sour cream and mayonnaise with plant-based alternatives, and use a vegan cheese substitute or simply omit the cheese. This transforms the salad into a vegan-friendly, dairy-free option without compromising on flavor.
Low-Carb Option: For a lighter version, substitute half the pasta with spiralized zucchini or add more vegetables, reducing the overall carbohydrate content.

Tips for Perfecting This Salad

Here are a few pro tips to ensure your Mexican Pasta Salad is the best it can be:

Use Fresh Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice has a brighter, more authentic flavor than bottled, adding a fresh zest that complements the other ingredients.
Char the Corn: If time allows, char the corn on the grill or in a skillet. This adds a subtle smoky flavor that enhances the Tex-Mex vibe of the salad.
Serve Chilled: For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This allows the dressing to set and the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Add a Crunchy Topping: For extra texture, top with crushed tortilla chips, crispy fried onions, or roasted pumpkin seeds right before serving.
Control the Dressing Consistency: Adjust the dressing’s consistency by adding a bit of water or more lime juice to lighten it if desired. A slightly thinner dressing allows it to coat the ingredients better, giving each bite a balanced flavor.

Conclusion

Mexican Pasta Salad stands out for its blend of vibrant flavors, creamy textures, and nutrient-dense ingredients. It’s easy to prepare, with enough versatility to suit different dietary needs, and the flavors develop even more as the salad chills, making it a perfect make-ahead dish. Whether served as a hearty side at a barbecue or as a vegetarian main, this salad celebrates the spirit of summer with each bite. This refreshing dish not only brings zest to the table but also showcases the simplicity of mixing Italian pasta with Mexican-inspired flavors. Adding this Mexican Pasta Salad to your recipe collection means you’ll have a go-to dish that’s a guaranteed hit, satisfying both traditional and adventurous palates alike. Enjoy this delightful salad as a colorful centerpiece or a trusted side that promises to impress at every occasion!