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Taco Pasta Salad

A vibrant and flavorful Taco Pasta Salad combining the zest of Mexican spices with the comfort of pasta, perfect for a quick lunch or a party side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz rotini pasta
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup diced red onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing
  • 1/4 cup salsa
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
  3. Add taco seasoning and 2/3 cup water to the beef. Simmer for 5 minutes, then let cool slightly.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, seasoned ground beef, cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, red onion, and cilantro.
  5. In a small bowl, mix ranch dressing and salsa until well combined.
  6. Pour the dressing mixture over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat.
  7. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and gently mix.
  8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with seasoned black beans or plant-based meat crumbles. Serve chilled for best flavor.