Taco Pasta Salad

Taco Pasta Salad

Taco Pasta Salad is a delicious and colorful dish that combines the flavors of tacos with the heartiness of pasta. It’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a quick weeknight meal. This dish is not only tasty but also easy to make, making it a great option for any occasion.

Why Make This Recipe

This Taco Pasta Salad is a fantastic way to enjoy all your favorite taco ingredients in a new and exciting format. It provides a blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies for those who might be picky eaters. It’s simple to prepare and a great crowd-pleaser!

How to Make Taco Pasta Salad

Making Taco Pasta Salad is straightforward and requires just a few steps. Follow the simple directions below to whip up this tasty dish.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz pasta (such as rotini or penne)
• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup Doritos, crushed (for topping)
• Dressing (such as ranch or a taco dressing)

Directions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions and drain.
2. In a skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat, then drain the excess fat. Stir in the taco seasoning and follow the instructions on the packet.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, seasoned meat, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, cheese, red onion, bell pepper, and lettuce.
4. Drizzle with your choice of dressing and toss gently to combine.
5. Top with crushed Doritos before serving for added crunch.

How to Serve Taco Pasta Salad

This Taco Pasta Salad can be served chilled or at room temperature. It makes a great side dish or light main meal. Serve it in a large bowl for sharing, or portion it out onto plates. Add extra crushed Doritos on top for a fun crunch!

How to Store Taco Pasta Salad

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to eat the salad within 3 days. If you want the best texture, keep the crushed Doritos separate until you’re ready to serve again.

Tips to Make Taco Pasta Salad

• Cook the pasta al dente so it holds up well in the salad.
• Customize the toppings! Add avocado, olives, or jalapeños for extra flavor.
• If you want more spice, consider using spicy taco seasoning or adding diced jalapeños.

Variation

Feel free to switch up the protein! You can use chicken or leave it vegetarian by adding more beans or grilled vegetables.

FAQs

1. Can I make Taco Pasta Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing and Doritos separate until serving.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring other ingredients are gluten-free.

3. What dressing works best with Taco Pasta Salad?
Ranch or taco dressing are both excellent choices. Choose one that you enjoy on your tacos!

Enjoy making and sharing this delightful Taco Pasta Salad with friends and family!