Name: Mexican Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces whole wheat pasta (bow tie, elbow, or similar); 2 cups corn (cut from the cob, or frozen and thawed); 1 can black beans (reduced sodium, drained and rinsed); 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved); 2 large avocados (peeled, pitted, and diced); 3 whole green onions (thinly sliced); 1 large jalapeño (cored, seeded, and diced); 1/3 cup cilantro (chopped); ½ cup feta cheese (crumbled); ¾ cup Greek yogurt (nonfat plain); 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra-virgin); Zest of 2 limes (plus 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice); 1 teaspoon Tabasco (or similar hot sauce); ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon chili powder; ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika

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There’s something incredibly refreshing about a Mexican Pasta Salad, especially during those hot summer days when you crave something light yet satisfying. I often find myself yearning for this dish after a long day at the beach, or during a sunny picnic with friends. The vibrant colors of the fresh ingredients and the zesty flavors just make everything feel so alive! This is the perfect dish to share at gatherings or simply to enjoy at home. The combination of textures and flavors—from the crispy veggies to the creamy dressing—makes every bite a delightful experience. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, which is an added bonus when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
290 kcal

Protein:
10 g

Diet:
Standard

Fat:
8 g

Tools Used:
Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Peeler, Wooden Spoon, Cutting Board

The Beauty of This Mexican Pasta Salad

Why do I adore this Mexican Pasta Salad so much? Here are a few reasons:

1. Bursting with Flavor

Each ingredient in this salad plays a pivotal role in creating an explosion of taste. The sweetness of fresh corn pairs beautifully with the creaminess of ripe avocados and the heat from jalapeños. Not to mention the tangy dressing that ties everything together. It’s a flavor fiesta in every bite!

2. Super Versatile

This salad is as versatile as it gets. You can serve it as a side dish or make it the star of your meal. Want to add more protein? Throw in some grilled chicken or shrimp. Prefer a vegetarian option? Just double up on the beans! There’s no wrong way to enjoy it.

3. Packed with Nutrients

With ingredients like black beans, avocados, and Greek yogurt, this salad is not just tasty but also a powerhouse of nutrients. It’s loaded with fiber, healthy fats, and plenty of vitamins, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

4. Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re someone who likes to plan meals ahead, this Mexican Pasta Salad is your best friend! You can prepare the dressing and cook the pasta up to a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Just toss everything together a few hours before serving, and you’re good to go!

5. A Feast for the Eyes

Let’s face it: we eat with our eyes first. This salad is a visual delight with its vibrant colors—crimson cherry tomatoes, bright green avocados, and the pop of herbs. It’s a dish that will impress your guests before they even take a bite!

6. Easy to Customize

The beauty of this salad is in its adaptability. You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Don’t like feta cheese? Leave it out. Craving something extra crunchy? Toss in some tortilla strips! The possibilities are endless!

What to Gather for Mexican Pasta Salad

When it comes to whipping up a delicious Mexican Pasta Salad, the right ingredients make all the difference. Each one contributes to the overall flavor and texture, creating a tantalizing dish that is sure to please any crowd. Here’s what you’ll need:

8 ounces of whole wheat pasta: Choose bow tie, elbow, or any small shape you love. Whole wheat pasta adds a nutty flavor and more fiber.
2 cups of corn: Freshly cut from the cob or frozen. It brings sweetness and crunch to the salad.
1 can of reduced sodium black beans: Rinsed and drained, for protein and heartiness.
2 cups of halved cherry tomatoes: Juicy and sweet, they add a burst of freshness.
2 large avocados: Creamy and filling, they give a rich texture.
3 whole green onions: Thinly sliced, for a mild onion flavor.
1 large jalapeño: Cored and diced, add spice to your liking!
1/3 cup of chopped cilantro: Bright and aromatic, it’s essential for a true Mexican flavor.
½ cup of crumbled feta cheese: For a salty and creamy addition.
¾ cup of nonfat plain Greek yogurt: This will serve as the base for our creamy dressing.
2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil: Adds richness without being overpowering.
Zest of 2 limes and 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lime juice: This gives the salad a refreshing kick.
1 teaspoon of Tabasco: For a bit of heat.
½ teaspoon of kosher salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
½ teaspoon of chili powder: Adds depth and a hint of smokiness.
¼ teaspoon of smoked paprika: For that irresistible smoky flavor.

Making This Mexican Pasta Salad

Creating this Mexican Pasta Salad is a breeze, and you’ll find yourself enjoying the process as much as the end result. Here’s how to do it:

Start by cooking the whole wheat pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes, but check the package for specifics. Once it’s done, rinse it with cool water to stop the cooking process. This helps keep the pasta from becoming mushy.
Drain the pasta well and transfer it to a large serving bowl. This is where all the magic will happen!
Next, add the corn, black beans, cherry tomatoes, avocados, green onions, jalapeño, and cilantro to the bowl. Give everything a gentle toss to combine. You want all those beautiful colors to blend without mashing the avocados.
Now it’s time to make the dressing! In a small bowl or a large measuring cup, combine the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lime zest and juice, Tabasco, salt, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Whisk it all together until it’s smooth and creamy. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed. This is your chance to make it perfect!
Once the dressing is ready, pour it over the pasta mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is thoroughly coated and all the ingredient flavors are combined. This is the moment when it all comes together!
If you have time, cover the bowl and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 to 2 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. However, if you’re in a rush, you can enjoy it right away!
Before serving, sprinkle the feta cheese over the top. This adds a lovely creamy texture and enhances the flavor of the dish. You can also add an extra sprinkle of cilantro or a dash more Tabasco for some added flair.
Serve the salad cold or at room temperature. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or just a simple dinner at home!
Enjoy every delicious bite of your Mexican Pasta Salad. Trust me, it’s hard to resist going back for seconds!

Things Worth Knowing

Salad Base: The key to a great salad is a good base. Make sure your pasta is cooked al dente; this keeps it from getting mushy.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh produce whenever possible, especially the avocados and cilantro for maximum flavor.
Toss Gently: When mixing ingredients, toss gently to avoid mashing the avocados and ensure even distribution of flavors.
Flavor Enhancement: Letting the salad chill in the fridge for a couple of hours before serving enhances the flavors significantly.
Customize to Taste: Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or less jalapeño and Tabasco.

Variations to Try

There are endless possibilities when it comes to putting your own spin on this Mexican Pasta Salad. Here are some fun variations you can try:

Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. This makes it heartier and perfect as a main dish.
Spicy Kick: If you love heat, add more chopped jalapeño or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
Different Cheeses: Swap out the feta cheese for crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheddar cheese for a different flavor profile.
Additional Vegetables: Toss in other veggies like diced bell peppers, cucumbers, or zucchini for added texture and nutrients.
Grain Swap: Try using quinoa instead of pasta for a gluten-free option that still packs a punch.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like parsley or dill to change up the flavor.
Vegan Option: Replace the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and omit the feta cheese for a delicious vegan version.

What to Pair With Mexican Pasta Salad

If you’re wondering what to serve alongside your Mexican Pasta Salad, look no further! Here are some fantastic pairing ideas:

Grilled Veggies: Serve with grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a colorful plate.
Fresh Fruit: A side of fresh fruit salad adds a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.
Tex-Mex Dishes: Pair it with tacos or burritos for a complete Mexican-themed meal.
Summer BBQs: This salad is perfect for summer barbecues as a refreshing side dish.
Chips and Salsa: Serve with a side of tortilla chips and salsa for that extra crunch!
Simple Grilled Chicken: A simple grilled chicken breast pairs well and adds lean protein.
Sandwiches: This salad complements sandwiches well, especially with a spread of avocado or hummus.

FAQ

Absolutely! In fact, the Mexican Pasta Salad tastes even better when made ahead of time. You can prepare the dressing and cook the pasta up to a day in advance. Just store everything separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, toss everything together. If possible, let it sit for a couple of hours to allow the flavors to blend!

This Mexican Pasta Salad is incredibly versatile! You can add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein, swap out the feta cheese for another type of cheese, or even replace the pasta with quinoa for a gluten-free option. Don’t hesitate to throw in additional vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers to suit your taste!

Leftover Mexican Pasta Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, the veggies may lose some of their texture over time. If you anticipate leftovers, you might want to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve, ensuring everything stays fresh and crisp!

Mexican Pasta Salad is great for gatherings, parties, or potlucks. It yields a generous amount, about 8 servings, making it perfect for sharing. Just be sure to prepare it ahead of time so the flavors can meld!

Conclusion

This Mexican Pasta Salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delicious and nutritious option for any occasion. With its vibrant ingredients and zesty dressing, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. I encourage you to give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!