Zesty Southwestern Pasta Salad
This vibrant and flavorful Zesty Southwestern Pasta Salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any gathering, from potlucks to family dinners. It features a perfect balance of fresh vegetables, tender pasta shells, and a zesty homemade dressing, making it a versatile addition to any meal. The best part? Leftovers turn into an easy, hearty soup with just a bit of vegetable broth and canned tomatoes! Tailored to perfection with chili powder, cumin, and a touch of lime, this recipe offers a bold Southwestern twist on a classic pasta salad. Adjust the seasonings to your taste and watch it disappear at your next event!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Small shell pasta | 8 oz |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Fresh lime juice | 2 tbsp |
| Chili powder | 2 tbsp |
| Ground cumin | 2 tbsp |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Frozen corn, thawed | 1 1/2 cups |
| Black beans, rinsed and drained | 1 can (15 oz) |
| Green bell pepper, chopped | 1 |
| Red bell pepper, chopped | 1 |
| Red onion, finely chopped | 1 |
| Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped | 1/2 cup |
| Grape tomatoes, halved | 1 cup |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 192 kcal |
| Total Fat | 3.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 137.2 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 34 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.3 g |
| Sugars | 1.8 g |
| Protein | 7.2 g |
Instructions
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Prepare the Pasta: Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. For a firmer texture, cook the pasta 1-2 minutes less than recommended. |
| 2 | Rinse and Drain: Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process, keeping it firm and ready to absorb flavors. |
| 3 | Whisk the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lime juice, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and minced garlic. This forms a robust, zesty dressing that’s perfectly spiced for Southwestern flair. |
| 4 | Combine Pasta and Dressing: Gently toss the pasta into the dressing to coat evenly, allowing the flavors to begin infusing. Set aside for a few minutes to let the pasta absorb the spices. |
| 5 | Add the Veggies: Fold in the thawed corn, black beans, chopped green and red bell peppers, finely chopped red onion, grape tomatoes, and half of the fresh cilantro leaves. Stir gently to distribute ingredients without crushing them. |
| 6 | Garnish and Chill: Garnish with the remaining cilantro leaves. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. |
| 7 | Serve and Enjoy: After chilling, give the salad a gentle stir, taste, and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve cold and enjoy the burst of Southwestern flavors in every bite! |
