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Mexican Pasta Salad

Vibrant Mexican Pasta Salad with Creamy Chipotle Dressing

A refreshing Mexican Pasta Salad with zesty chipotle dressing, perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 57 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Dried Uncooked Pasta Choose any shape like rotini or penne.
  • 1 can Black Beans Rinsed well to cut sodium.
  • 1 cup Corn Fresh, canned, or thawed frozen.
  • 2 medium Tomatoes Diced for even distribution.
  • 1/4 cup Cilantro Chopped; parsley can be a substitute.
  • 1/4 medium Red Onion Finely diced; soaking helps mellow flavor.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Swap with yogurt for a lighter option.
  • 1/4 cup Sour Cream Greek yogurt can be used.
  • 1 tablespoon Chipotle in Adobo Adjust for spice preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Powder Use to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Essential for flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be a substitute.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder Optional but adds depth.
  • 2 tablespoons Lime Juice Fresh lime juice preferred.
  • to taste Salt Adjust to taste.
  • to taste Pepper Adjust to taste.
  • 1 medium Avocado Optional for creaminess.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • mixing bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your choice of dried uncooked pasta, and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-12 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water for about 30 seconds to halt the cooking process. Set the pasta aside and let it cool completely.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with a hearty portion of rinsed black beans, sweet corn, diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, and finely diced red onion. Gently toss all the ingredients together until evenly mixed, ensuring that the vibrant colors and textures are beautifully distributed.
  3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, and chipotle in adobo for a creamy base. Add chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and fresh lime juice, blending thoroughly until smooth.
  4. Pour the chipotle lime dressing over the pasta mixture, tossing gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
  5. Serve immediately for a fresh hit of flavor or cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to meld the flavors. Optionally, top with creamy slices of avocado right before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 12gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 10gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 5mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Prepare 1-2 days in advance for optimal flavor blending.

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