This colorful Southwestern Pasta Salad is packed with fresh veggies, black beans, and sweet corn. Tossed in a zesty dressing, it’s both crunchy and creamy—perfect for any gathering!
I love how quick it is to whip up! Just boil the pasta, mix, and you’ve got a dish that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s great for lunch the next day. Double win! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This spiral shape holds the dressing and adds texture. If you don’t have rotini, any short pasta like fusilli or penne works well. Gluten-free pasta is also a great swap!
Cooked Chicken: Adding chicken is optional. For a meatless option, you can use grilled tofu or chickpeas instead. This adds protein without the need for meat.
Black Beans: They’re a staple for fiber and protein. If you’re out of black beans, kidney beans or pinto beans are great substitutes and provide similar nutrition.
Corn: Whether fresh or frozen, corn brings a sweet crunch. If it’s not available, diced bell peppers or even peas can add a nice burst of flavor.
Cherry Tomatoes: They add sweetness and juiciness. For a different taste, you could use diced tomatoes or even roasted red peppers for a richer flavor.
Cilantro: This herb adds freshness. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley or green onions can be used instead for a similar vibrant touch.
How Do I Make Sure the Pasta Salad Is Flavorful?
Getting the flavors to meld in the pasta salad is essential. After preparing the dressing, let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This time allows the pasta and veggies to soak up the flavors.
- Cook the pasta al dente for a firmer texture.
- Rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and bring down the temperature.
- Toss everything with the dressing gently to ensure all ingredients are coated without smashing the veggies.
- Adjust seasoning after chilling—sometimes a little more salt or pepper can bring out the flavors even more.
How to Make Southwestern Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced (optional)
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup ranch dressing (or Southwest dressing)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Southwestern Pasta Salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, you’ll have a delicious and refreshing dish ready in about 50 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add the rotini pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (tender but still firm). Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. This will also help prevent it from getting sticky.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta. If you’re using cooked chicken, toss that in too. Then, add the black beans, corn, halved cherry tomatoes, diced green bell pepper, diced red bell pepper, diced red onion, and chopped cilantro. Mix everything together gently using a spatula or wooden spoon.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing (or Southwest dressing), chili powder, cumin, and some salt and pepper. Whisk until everything is well combined and creamy.
4. Combine Salad and Dressing:
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mixture and toss everything together until it’s evenly coated with the dressing. Make sure all the ingredients are mixed well so that every bite is packed with flavor!
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors blend wonderfully. When you’re ready to serve, you can enjoy the pasta salad chilled or at room temperature. Feel free to garnish with extra cilantro on top for a fresh touch!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini works great for this salad, you can substitute with other pasta shapes like bowtie, fusilli, or penne. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Sure! Simply omit the diced chicken and use a vegan ranch or Southwest dressing. You can also add extra vegetables or chickpeas for protein.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to blend, but be mindful of the tomatoes; they may become watery over time.
Can I Prepare It the Night Before?
Yes, this salad is perfect for make-ahead meals! Just prepare it as instructed and refrigerate overnight. It will be even more flavorful the next day. Just give it a good stir before serving!
