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Southwest Pasta Salad

Southwest Pasta Salad: A Refreshing Twist on a Classic!

Enjoy a vibrant Southwest Pasta Salad, perfect for summer gatherings and easy to customize, featuring bold flavors and textures.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Southwestern
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

Dressing
  • 0.25 cup red wine vinegar substitute with apple cider vinegar for milder taste
  • 2 tablespoons honey substitute with maple syrup for vegan option
  • 0.33 cup canola or vegetable oil can use olive oil for a heart-healthy twist
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin substitute with coriander for different flavor
Salad
  • 1 pound mini bowtie pasta opt for gluten-free pasta if needed
  • 1 count red or orange bell pepper diced
  • 1 count green bell pepper diced
  • 3 cobs corn or 10 oz frozen, canned corn is a quick substitute
  • 15 oz black beans drained and rinsed
  • 10 oz cherry tomatoes halved
  • 2 cups cilantro chopped
  • 2 count avocados chopped
  • 1 cup cotija cheese optional, replace with feta or vegan cheese

Equipment

  • Mason jar
  • large pot
  • colander
  • Large mixing bowl

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. In a mason jar, combine red wine vinegar, honey, canola oil, and ground cumin. Secure lid and shake until well blended.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add mini bowtie pasta. Cook until al dente, about 7-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, diced bell peppers, corn, black beans, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro. Stir until combined.
  4. Drizzle the dressing over the mixture and toss to coat.
  5. Fold in the chopped avocados and sprinkle with cotija cheese, if using.
  6. Taste the salad, adjust seasoning, and serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 10gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Add avocado just before serving to prevent browning.

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