Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pasta salad offers a delightful combination of textures and bold southwestern flavors. It’s easy to prepare, packed with protein and veggies, and versatile enough to serve as a main dish or a side. The creamy dressing ties all the ingredients together for a crowd-pleasing salad.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Pasta (rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni)
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Black beans (rinsed and drained)
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Corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
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Red and green bell peppers (diced)
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Cherry tomatoes (halved)
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Red onion (finely chopped)
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Cheddar cheese (shredded)
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Cilantro (chopped)
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Mayonnaise
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Sour cream
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Lime juice
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Chili powder
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Cumin
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Garlic powder
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Salt and pepper
Directions
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Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
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In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, black beans, corn, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, shredded cheese, and cilantro.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
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Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
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Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
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Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 6-8
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 10 minutes
Variations
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Add cooked, diced chicken or grilled steak for extra protein.
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Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and mayonnaise for a healthier dressing.
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Include jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
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Use pepper jack cheese for added flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Do not freeze.
FAQs
Can I use other types of beans?
Yes, kidney beans or pinto beans are great alternatives.
Can I prepare this salad ahead?
Yes, it tastes best after chilling for a few hours or overnight.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta to make the salad gluten-free.
How do I prevent the salad from getting soggy?
Drain and rinse pasta well; add dressing just before serving.
Can I make it vegan?
Use vegan mayonnaise, sour cream substitutes, and omit cheese.
How spicy is this salad?
It’s mild by default; adjust spice with jalapeños or hot sauce.
Can I add avocado?
Yes, diced avocado adds creaminess and flavor.
Can I make this salad without mayonnaise?
Substitute with extra sour cream or Greek yogurt.
How long does it keep?
Up to 3 days refrigerated.
What sides pair well?
Serve with grilled meats, chips, or as a main dish.
Conclusion
Cowboy Pasta Salad is a flavorful, filling, and colorful dish that’s perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or casual meals. With its bold southwestern flavors and easy preparation, this salad is sure to become a staple for anyone who loves vibrant, tasty pasta dishes.
Cowboy Pasta Salad
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6-8
- Category: Snack, Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cowboy Pasta Salad is a hearty, colorful salad packed with pasta, black beans, corn, bell peppers, and cheese, all tossed in a zesty creamy dressing. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a satisfying side dish year-round, this southwestern-inspired salad combines bold flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
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3 cups pasta (rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni)
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1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
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1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
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1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
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1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1/4 cup chopped cilantro
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1/2 cup mayonnaise
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1/2 cup sour cream
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2 tbsp lime juice
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1 tsp chili powder
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1/2 tsp cumin
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
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In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, black beans, corn, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, shredded cheese, and cilantro.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
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Pour dressing over pasta mixture and toss until evenly coated.
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Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
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Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
Add cooked diced chicken or grilled steak for extra protein.Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise and sour cream for a lighter dressing.Include jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.Use pepper jack cheese for added flavor.Store leftovers in airtight container in refrigerator up to 3 days. Do not freeze.
