Go Back
–+ servings
Southwestern Pasta Salad

Vibrant Southwestern Pasta Salad for Your Next Potluck

This Southwestern Pasta Salad is a colorful, healthy, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for potlucks.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Pasta
Cuisine: Southwestern
Calories: 290
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Rotini Pasta Substitute with penne or elbow macaroni if desired.
For the Fresh Veggies
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper Adds crunch and sweetness.
  • 1 medium Green Bell Pepper Can use yellow or orange as well.
  • 1 cup Diced Cherry Tomatoes Substitute with halved grape tomatoes if needed.
  • 1 cup Corn (Frozen or Canned) Ensure it's thawed if frozen.
For the Protein
  • 1 can Black Beans Drain and rinse before use.
For the Fresh Herbs
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Cilantro Can be replaced with parsley.
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Green Onions Substitute with chives if preferred.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Use vegan mayo for a dairy-free version.
  • 1/2 cup Plain Greek Yogurt Can swap with sour cream.
  • 1 packet Dry Ranch Seasoning
  • 1 tbsp Taco Seasoning Adjust for spice level.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • mixing bowl
  • whisk
  • large spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. While the pasta is cooling, chop the bell peppers and dice the cherry tomatoes. Combine with corn and black beans in a large mixing bowl.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, ranch seasoning, and taco seasoning. Add milk if necessary to achieve desired consistency.
  4. Add cooled pasta to the vegetables and pour the dressing over. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
  5. Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 290kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 7gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 70mgCalcium: 5mgIron: 10mg

Notes

This pasta salad can be customized with additional proteins or vegetables. Keep in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!