Get ready to transform your summer gatherings with the ultimate crowd-pleasing dish that's about to become your new obsession! Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad isn't just another side dish - it's a flavor explosion that combines the zesty spirit of Tex-Mex cuisine with a refreshing pasta base that'll have everyone asking for seconds. Imagine a vibrant, colorful mix that's both nutritious and incredibly delicious, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick weeknight meal that'll transport your taste buds to a Southwest fiesta!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (cavatappi or elbow)
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While pasta is cooking, drain and rinse the black beans and corn in a colander under cold running water. Set aside.
- Dice the red bell pepper into small, uniform cubes approximately 1/4 inch in size.
- Finely chop the red onion, ensuring pieces are small and consistent.
- Once pasta is cooked, drain in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta quickly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, black beans, corn, diced red bell pepper, and red onion.
- Chop fresh cilantro and add to the pasta mixture.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over the ingredients, ensuring even distribution.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, gently tossing all ingredients to combine.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
Tips
- • For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed lime juice instead of bottled - it makes a world of difference! • Make sure to rinse your beans and corn thoroughly to prevent the salad from becoming too watery. • Allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors marry and intensify. • For extra protein, consider adding grilled chicken or black beans. • If you're not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute with fresh parsley for a milder herb flavor. • Use cavatappi or elbow pasta to help the dressing and ingredients cling better to each pasta curve. • This salad tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 10g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
