Mexican Pasta Salad
Introduction
Mexican Pasta Salad is a fun and colorful dish that combines pasta with fresh veggies and bold flavors. It’s perfect for picnics, BBQs, or as a light meal. This salad is not only tasty but also packed with nutrition!
Why Make This Recipe
You should make this Mexican Pasta Salad because it’s super easy and quick to prepare. It’s a great way to enjoy a healthy meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. Plus, it’s always a hit at gatherings! Your family and friends will love this vibrant dish.
How to Make Mexican Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 12 oz box bowtie pasta
- 15 oz can black beans
- 15 oz can yellow kernel corn
- 1 pint grape tomatoes
- 1 jalapeno
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/3 cup cilantro
- 3/4 cup avocado dressing
- 2 large avocados
- 1 cup queso fresco
Directions:
- Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions, then drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, black beans, corn, halved grape tomatoes, diced jalapeno, and red onion.
- Gently mix in the cilantro, avocado dressing, and diced avocados.
- Crumble queso fresco on top and toss to combine.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for the flavors to meld.
How to Serve Mexican Pasta Salad
Serve this salad chilled. It’s great as a side dish or as a main meal. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with grilled chicken for extra protein. Garnish it with more cilantro or queso fresco for a fresh touch!
How to Store Mexican Pasta Salad
To store your Mexican Pasta Salad, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just remember, the avocados may brown, so it’s best to add them just before serving if you plan to store leftovers.
Tips to Make Mexican Pasta Salad
- Make sure to rinse the pasta with cold water after cooking to stop the cooking process and keep it from getting mushy.
- Feel free to adjust the veggies based on what you have on hand. Bell peppers or corn can be great additions!
- For a bit of heat, try adding some extra diced jalapeno or even a dash of hot sauce.
Variation
You can easily turn this into a chicken pasta salad. Just add grilled chicken or shredded rotisserie chicken for a heartier meal. You can also swap out the avocado dressing for a vinaigrette if you prefer a lighter taste.
FAQs
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Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance, but add the avocados just before serving to keep them fresh. -
Is this salad gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. -
Can I freeze Mexican Pasta Salad?
It’s best not to freeze the salad, especially with avocados, as they don’t freeze well. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
Give this Mexican Pasta Salad a try! It’s refreshing, quick, and packed with flavor that everyone will love!
