Zesty Taco Pasta Salad

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz. rotini pasta
  • 1 lb. ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning mix
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/2 cup red onion, diced
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels, cooked and drained
  • 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
  • 1/2 cup salsa
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
  2. In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and cooked through, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess fat.
  3. Add the taco seasoning mix to the ground beef according to package instructions. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, seasoned ground beef, cherry tomatoes, black olives, red onion, corn kernels, black beans, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped cilantro (if using).
  5. Drizzle salsa and sour cream over the salad mixture. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Garnish with sliced jalapeños if desired.
  8. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
  9. Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Kcal: 380 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings

FAQs:

  • What ingredients are needed for Zesty Taco Pasta Salad?
    • Key ingredients typically include pasta (such as rotini or penne), ground beef or turkey, taco seasoning, black beans, corn kernels, cherry tomatoes, red onion, bell peppers (red and green), shredded cheese (like cheddar or Mexican blend), cilantro, lime juice, and a creamy dressing (often made with sour cream or Greek yogurt).
  • How do I cook the pasta for the salad?
    • Cook the pasta according to package instructions in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta quickly. This helps prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the other ingredients.
  • Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
    • Yes, this pasta salad can be made ahead of time. Prepare all the ingredients and toss them together in a large bowl, excluding the dressing. Cover and refrigerate. Add the dressing just before serving to maintain the salad’s freshness and texture.
  • What dressing works best for Zesty Taco Pasta Salad?
    • A creamy dressing made with sour cream or Greek yogurt, seasoned with taco seasoning, lime juice, and a touch of cilantro, works best for this salad. It adds a zesty and tangy flavor that complements the taco-inspired ingredients.
  • Are there any optional add-ins or substitutions for this recipe?
    • You can customize this salad by adding avocado slices, olives, jalapeños for heat, or diced mango for a sweet contrast. For a lighter version, use lean ground turkey instead of beef, or swap regular pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.

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