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–+ servings
Taco Pasta Salad

Taco Pasta Salad: Your New Favorite Summer Side Sensation

Taco Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings, combining delicious taco spices with fresh veggies.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Rotini Can substitute with penne or farfalle.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Can use Greek yogurt as a lighter substitute.
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream Opt for Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative.
  • 2 tbsp Taco Seasoning Use homemade or store-bought as preferred.
  • 1 tbsp Ranch Seasoning (dry) Other creamy dressing mixes can work too.
For the Vegetables
  • 3 tbsp Green Onions (diced) Red onions can be used for a sharper taste.
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper (diced) Can substitute with yellow or green bell pepper.
  • 15 oz Corn (drained, canned) Fresh corn can enhance flavor.
For the Cheese
  • 1 cup Mexican Blend Cheese (shredded) Cheddar or Monterey jack can be used.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • spatula
  • whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the rotini in a large pot of boiling salted water for 8-10 minutes until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, taco seasoning, and ranch seasoning; mix until smooth.
  3. Add cooled rotini to the dressing and toss gently to coat the pasta.
  4. Fold in diced green onions, red bell pepper, and drained corn, stirring well.
  5. Mix in shredded cheese thoroughly without breaking the pasta.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to chill before serving.
  7. Give the salad a quick stir before serving and garnish if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 6gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Rinsing the pasta helps maintain its texture. Chill time is crucial for flavor melding. Optional protein additions can enhance this dish further.

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