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Southwest Pasta Salad

Southwest Pasta Salad

Creamy Southwest pasta salad with rotini, corn, black beans, peppers, and a chipotle ranch style dressing, ideal as a chilled dinner or party side.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz rotini pasta or similar short shape
  • 1 cup corn kernels fresh or thawed frozen
  • 1 cup black beans rinsed and drained
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/4 red onion finely diced
  • 1/3 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1 cup cooked chicken diced, optional
  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 3/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 2-3 tbsp lime juice fresh
  • 2 tsp chipotle chili powder or adobo sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt plus more to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and rinse briefly with cool water.
  2. Cool pasta completely in a large bowl, then add corn, black beans, bell pepper, tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and chicken if using.
  3. Whisk mayonnaise, sour cream or yogurt, lime juice, chipotle, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  4. Pour most of the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat. Add remaining dressing only if needed.
  5. Chill for at least 30 minutes, then taste and adjust seasoning with extra lime, salt, or cilantro before serving.

Notes

  • Cook pasta slightly firm so it holds up after chilling.
  • Reserve a bit of dressing to stir in just before serving if making ahead.
  • Add grilled chicken or extra beans to turn this into a more filling main dish salad.