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–+ servings
Southwest Pasta Salad

Southwest Pasta Salad

Bright, fresh, and no-bake, this Southwest Pasta Salad brings a healthy, spicy kick to any table. Picture tri-color rotini tossed with black beans, sweet corn, bell peppers, and a zesty cilantro-lime dressing.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 9 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine Southwestern
Servings 6 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz tricolor rotini pasta Barilla brand; use gluten-free rotini for GF
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup frozen sweet corn thawed; fresh corn works too
  • 1 red bell pepper diced; yellow or orange adds sunshine
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved; heirloom if you're feeling fancy
  • 1/2 small red onion finely chopped; soak in cold water for 5 mins to mellow bite
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped; loosely packed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil extra-virgin for best flavor
  • 2 limes juiced (about 3-4 tbsp)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin toasty, earthy warmth
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika mild smoky note
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder add more if you love heat
  • Salt and pepper to taste (start with 1/2 tsp salt)
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt optional; for creaminess (plain, whole-milk)

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini and cook until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
  • Chop peppers, tomatoes, and onion. Rinse black beans and thaw corn. Keep everything bite-sized for an even mix.
  • In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk in Greek yogurt for a creamier sauce if desired.
  • Combine cooled pasta, beans, corn, peppers, tomatoes, onion, and cilantro in a mixing bowl. Pour dressing over and toss gently until everything is coated.
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes. Stir halfway through chilling if possible.
  • Adjust salt, pepper, or lime juice as needed.
  • Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with extra cilantro or crushed tortilla chips.

Notes

Rinsing the pasta under cold water cools it fast and prevents sticking. You can swap canned corn for fresh kernels or customize with your favorite add-ins like avocado or shredded chicken.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcal
Keyword Gluten-Free, Healthy, Pasta Salad, Southwestern Flavors, Vegetarian
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