Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a burst of Southwestern flavors in this vibrant Grilled Southwestern Pasta Salad! Perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or a refreshing weeknight dinner, this dish combines the smokiness of grilled corn, the heartiness of black beans, and the zesty kick of lime to create a salad that’s as delicious as it is colorful. With just 40 minutes of prep and cook time, you’ll be serving up a crowd-pleaser that not only looks stunning but also delivers on flavor. Dive into this recipe and discover how simple ingredients can transform into a sensational dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Southwestern
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta
- 1 cup corn, grilled
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush the corn with a light coating of olive oil and grill for 3-4 minutes, rotating occasionally, until kernels are lightly charred and golden.
- Drain the cooked pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set aside to drain completely.
- Remove the grilled corn from the heat and carefully cut the kernels off the cob using a sharp knife.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, grilled corn kernels, rinsed black beans, and diced red bell pepper.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together lime juice, remaining olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Fold in the chopped fresh cilantro, reserving a small amount for garnish.
- Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with remaining cilantro and serve chilled.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for pasta shapes that hold dressing well, such as rotini or fusilli. They’ll trap the flavors and make each bite delightful.
- Grill Corn to Perfection: For the best flavor, ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before adding the corn. The slight char adds a smoky depth that enhances the overall taste.
- Don’t Skip the Rinse: After cooking the pasta, rinsing it under cold water not only stops the cooking process but also helps prevent it from becoming mushy in the salad.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other colorful vegetables like diced cucumbers or cherry tomatoes for extra crunch and flavor.
- Make Ahead: This salad tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Just give it a good toss before serving!
- Adjust the Dressing: Taste the dressing before adding it to the salad. You can adjust the lime juice and seasoning to suit your personal preference for tanginess and spice.
- Garnish for Flair: A sprinkle of extra cilantro or a few lime wedges on the side can elevate the presentation and add a fresh touch when serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
