Spicy Fiesta Pasta Salad is a quick and easy 20 minute meal that brings a warm kick and a variety of flavors to your table.
It combines pasta with black beans, corn, and tomatoes, giving it a hearty base.
The salad is topped off with a zesty Italian dressing, Mexican cheese blend, and a dash of green chilies for extra spice. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro finishes it off, adding a touch of freshness.
This dish is perfect for a casual dinner, a party, or even a simple weeknight meal. It’s easy to make and packs a flavorful punch, making it a great option for any occasion.
If you’d like some helpful Tips and Tricks, I have them below the recipe.
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Spicy Fiesta Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 1 package (16 ounce) pasta
- 1 can (15 ounce) black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 can (11 ounce) Mexican-style corn drained
- 1 can (4 ounce) chopped green chilies drained
- 2 fresh tomatoes sliced
- ½ cup Italian-style salad dressing
- ½ cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 1 can (4ounce) sliced black olives drained
- 1 slice onion minced
- 2 tablespoon taco seasoning mix
- ½ juiced lime
- fresh cilantro to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring it to a boil.
- Add pasta to the boiling water. Cook for about 8 minutes or until the pasta is tender but still firm.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine black beans, Mexican-style corn, chopped green chilies, sliced black olives, sliced tomatoes, minced onion, Italian-style salad dressing, shredded Mexican cheese blend, taco seasoning mix, and the juice of half a lime.
- Chop some fresh cilantro and add it to the bowl.
- Add the cooked pasta to the bowl.
- Gently stir all the ingredients together until well mixed.
Nutrition
Tips and Tricks
Adjusting Spice Level: For a milder flavor, choose mild taco seasoning and reduce or omit the green chilies. For a spicier kick, use hot taco seasoning or add chopped jalapeños.
Pasta Choice: Use pasta shapes that hold the sauce well, like rotini or farfalle, to ensure each bite is flavorful.
Meal Prep: This dish can be made ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Add-Ins: For extra crunch, toss in some diced bell peppers or cucumbers. For protein, add grilled chicken or ground beef.
Serving: Serve the salad cold for a refreshing dish, or at room temperature if preferred. It’s great on its own or as a side dish.
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