Tex-Mex Pasta Salad Recipes
Zesty rotini tossed with black beans, corn, and tomatoes in a creamy chili-lime dressing. A bright, crowd-friendly side.
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Servings:
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 1.5 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1.25 cup corn kernels (canned or thawed frozen)
- 1.25 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 0.5 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp jalapeño, minced (seeded for less heat)
- 0.25 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 0.75 cup diced avocado optional; add before serving
- 0.75 cup shredded sharp cheddar or pepper jack
- 0.33 cup sliced green onion
- 0.33 cup mayonnaise
- 0.33 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
- 3 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 1.25 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp kosher salt plus more to taste
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp water to loosen dressing, as needed
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Boil the pasta in well-salted water until al dente, about 10–12 minutes.
- Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water, then shake dry completely.
- Whisk mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, olive oil, honey, and vinegar until smooth.
- Season the dressing with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic, salt, and pepper. Thin with water if needed.
- Combine cooled pasta, black beans, corn, tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, green onion, and cheese in a large bowl.
- Pour in the dressing and toss until every piece is lightly coated.
- Chill for 20–30 minutes to let flavors meld.
- Fold in avocado just before serving. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or lime.
Notes
Variation: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier main. Swap cheddar with cotija for a salty kick. For dairy-free, use avocado oil mayo and skip cheese.
Storage: Keep chilled in an airtight container up to 3 days. Add avocado fresh and revive leftovers with a squeeze of lime.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Tex-Mex Pasta Salad Recipes flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.