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Mexican Pasta Salad

Mexican Pasta Salad

The ultimate summer dish, Mexican Pasta Salad is a vibrant mix of fresh vegetables, creamy dressing, and hearty pasta. Perfect for picnics or barbecues, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying. You'll want to make it tonight!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salads, Side Dishes
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 290

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

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Chef's Knife
  • Peeler
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Cutting Board

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta to al dente according to package instructions. Rinse with cool water, drain, and place in a large serving bowl.
  2. Add the corn, black beans, cherry tomatoes, avocados, green onions, jalapeño, and cilantro.
  3. To make the dressing, in a small bowl or large measuring cup, stir together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lime zest and juice, hot sauce, salt, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Taste and add additional salt or spices as desired.
  4. Pour over the pasta mixture. Toss to coat, then sprinkle the feta over the top.
  5. If time allows, chill for 2 hours prior to serving or enjoy immediately.

Notes

  • Make Ahead: You can make the dressing and cook the pasta up to 1 day in advance.
  • Serving Time: Toss together up to 4 hours before serving for the best flavor.