Go Back
+ servings
Taco Pasta Salad

Zesty Taco Pasta Salad for Quick and Easy Weeknight Dinners

Taco Pasta Salad combines classic taco flavors with rotini pasta, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Rotini Pasta Can use gluten-free pasta.
For the Vegetables
  • 2 cups Romaine or Iceberg Lettuce Can substitute for spinach or kale.
  • 1 cup Canned Corn Fresh corn works when in season.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Any small tomato variety can substitute.
  • 1/2 cup Red Onion Can use white or yellow onions as alternatives.
  • 1/4 cup Cilantro Optional; omit if not a fan.
For the Protein
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Can consider ground turkey or chicken.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Sour Cream Greek yogurt can replace for lighter option.
  • 1/2 cup Taco Sauce Adjust based on heat preference.
  • 1 tbsp Taco Seasoning Homemade spice mix can be used.
  • 1/2 cup Salsa Choose a variety based on taste.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • large skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • Salad Bowl
  • tongs

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the rotini pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together sour cream and taco sauce until combined. Set aside.
  3. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat and season with salt, pepper, taco seasoning, and garlic if desired. Stir in salsa and cook for another minute.
  4. In a large salad bowl, combine cooled rotini pasta with the cooked ground beef mixture, chopped lettuce, corn, halved tomatoes, diced onion, and chopped cilantro.
  5. Drizzle dressing over the salad; toss gently to combine until evenly coated.
  6. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Add fresh greens just before serving if prepared in advance.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Customize with extra veggies like bell peppers or black beans for a personalized touch.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!