why make this recipe
Mexican Pasta Salad is a great dish that combines the flavors of classic Mexican cuisine with the heartiness of pasta. It’s colorful, easy to make, and perfect for gatherings, picnics, or weeknight dinners. This salad is packed with protein from black beans, fiber from corn and veggies, and a spicy, creamy dressing that ties all the ingredients together. It’s a fulfilling dish that will please both kids and adults alike.
how to make Mexican Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces dried uncooked pasta (I used jumbo elbow macaroni)
- 1 can (15.5 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn, thawed if frozen
- 1 cup tomatoes, diced
- 3 tbsp cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 3 tbsp chipotle in adobo, sauce only
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 medium lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Avocado, sliced for serving if desired
Directions:
- Boil pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water and set aside.
- Add the cooked pasta to a large bowl along with the black beans, corn, tomatoes, cilantro, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, combine the dressing ingredients: mayonnaise, sour cream, chipotle in adobo, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and lime juice.
- Add the dressing to the pasta mixture and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately or chill before serving. When you are ready to eat, serve with sliced or diced avocado.
how to serve Mexican Pasta Salad
You can serve Mexican Pasta Salad right away or allow it to chill in the refrigerator for a while. It’s a versatile dish that can be a side or a main course. Add sliced avocado on top to give it a fresh and creamy finish. It works wonderfully for barbecues, potlucks, or as a quick lunch.
how to store Mexican Pasta Salad
To store Mexican Pasta Salad, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. If you plan to add avocado, it’s best to add it just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.
tips to make Mexican Pasta Salad
- Use different types of pasta, like rotini or penne, for a fun twist.
- For extra crunch, consider adding bell peppers or chopped cucumbers.
- If you want more heat, use additional chipotle in adobo or toss in some jalapeños.
- Make it vegetarian-friendly by omitting any animal-based ingredients in the dressing.
variation (if any)
You can easily customize this Mexican Pasta Salad. Try adding grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. You can also switch up the beans by using pinto beans or chickpeas. For a lighter version, replace mayonnaise and sour cream with Greek yogurt.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this salad in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare this salad a day ahead. Just keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
Q: Is it gluten-free?
A: If you use gluten-free pasta, this salad can be gluten-free. Check the labels of all your ingredients to ensure they’re suitable.
Q: Can I use frozen corn?
A: Yes! Just make sure to thaw the corn before adding it to the salad for the best texture.
Mexican Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Pasta and Beans
- 8 ounces dried uncooked pasta (jumbo elbow macaroni)
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained (15.5 ounces)
Vegetables
- 1 cup corn, thawed if frozen
- 1 cup tomatoes, diced
- 3 tbsp cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
Dressing
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 3 tbsp chipotle in adobo, sauce only
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 medium lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Avocado, sliced for serving if desired
Instructions
Preparation
- Boil pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water and set aside.
- Add the cooked pasta to a large bowl along with the black beans, corn, tomatoes, cilantro, and red onion.
Mixing Dressing
- In a small bowl, combine the dressing ingredients: mayonnaise, sour cream, chipotle in adobo, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and lime juice.
Combine Ingredients
- Add the dressing to the pasta mixture and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving
- Serve immediately or chill before serving. When you are ready to eat, serve with sliced or diced avocado.