Description
Bright, bold, and bursting with Southwest flavor, this Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad is the perfect fusion of a classic bean salsa and a hearty pasta dish. Packed with black beans, corn, bell peppers, and a zesty homemade dressing, this vibrant salad is ideal for summer cookouts, potlucks, or a flavorful weeknight dinner. It’s a colorful and satisfying crowd-pleaser with a Tex-Mex twist!
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Ingredients
For the Salad:
12 oz rotini or bowtie pasta
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (15 oz) sweet corn, drained (or 1 ½ cups fresh/frozen)
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado, diced
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
½ cup cotija or feta cheese (optional)
For the Dressing:
¼ cup olive oil
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp chili powder
½ tsp cumin
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Pinch of cayenne (optional for heat)
Optional Add-Ins:
1 jalapeño, finely chopped (for spice)
1 cup cooked chicken or shrimp (for added protein)
½ cup cooked quinoa
Tortilla strips or crushed chips for crunch
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions.
Drain and rinse under cold water to cool, then set aside.
Step 2: Prep the Veggies
While the pasta cooks, dice the bell peppers, onion, avocado, and tomatoes.
Chop the cilantro and drain the beans and corn.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lime juice, mustard, garlic, and all spices until well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, black beans, corn, bell peppers, tomatoes, onion, and cilantro.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
Step 5: Add Avocado & Cheese
Gently fold in the diced avocado and sprinkle with cotija or feta cheese if using.
Taste and adjust seasoning with more lime juice or salt if needed.
Step 6: Chill or Serve
Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
Just before serving, top with optional tortilla strips or extra cilantro.
Notes
Cool the Pasta – Rinse with cold water to stop cooking and prevent mushiness.
Dress Lightly First – Add more dressing if needed just before serving.
Avocado Last – To prevent browning, add it right before serving.
Customize Freely – Mix in diced mango, cucumber, or cooked grains.
Make It a Meal – Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Cuisine: American-Southwest