Taco Pasta Salad
A quick and easy salad combining taco flavors with pasta, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
Pasta and meat
- 8 oz rotini pasta Fun shape that holds sauce well.
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey) Lean meat for a healthier option.
- 1 packet taco seasoning Use store-bought or homemade.
Vegetables
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Add freshness and sweetness.
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen) Provides a crunchy texture.
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained Adds protein and fiber.
- 1 cup diced bell peppers Use colorful varieties for a vibrant dish.
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced For added flavor.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped Adds a fresh flavor; replace with green onions if desired.
Dressing and cheese
- 1 cup taco sauce Creamy dressing to tie it all together.
- 1/2 cup sour cream Enhances creaminess and flavor.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Sharp cheddar gives extra flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste Adjust based on your preference.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Fill a large pot with water and add a good pinch of salt. Bring to a rolling boil, then add the rotini. Cook according to package instructions (8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
Browning the Meat
- In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in taco seasoning and splashes of water; cook for another 2-3 minutes. Let it cool.
Combining Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, browned meat, cherry tomatoes, corn, black beans, bell peppers, red onion, and cheddar cheese.
Making the Dressing
- In a separate bowl, mix taco sauce and sour cream. Pour over the pasta salad mixture and toss until well combined.
Final Seasoning
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix in the fresh cilantro and serve.
Notes
Let the pasta cool before mixing to keep the salad fresh. Customizable with different proteins and veggies.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 800mgFiber: 8gSugar: 5g
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