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Creamy Taco Ranch Pasta Salad with Black Beans

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A quick and easy creamy taco ranch pasta salad with black beans, perfect for summer parties and potlucks. This refreshing and satisfying dish combines al dente rotini pasta, fresh veggies, and a flavorful creamy dressing with a southwestern flair.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz rotini pasta, cooked al dente
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup sweet corn kernels (fresh, canned, or thawed frozen)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
  • 3 green onions, thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 packet (about 1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 tsp taco seasoning mix
  • 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz rotini pasta and cook according to package directions for al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool it down. Shake gently to remove excess water and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
  3. While pasta cooks, halve cherry tomatoes, dice red bell pepper, slice green onions, chop cilantro, and drain and rinse black beans. Measure corn kernels.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, ranch seasoning, taco seasoning, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
  5. Add black beans, corn, tomatoes, bell pepper, green onions, and cilantro to the cooled pasta. Pour the dressing over and toss gently until evenly coated. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld and chill the salad.
  7. Before serving, stir the salad and garnish with extra cilantro or green onions. Optionally, add crushed tortilla chips on top for crunch.

Notes

Do not overcook pasta; rinse pasta with cold water to stop cooking and prevent clumping. Rinse beans well to reduce canned taste. Chill salad at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor. For lighter dressing, substitute mayo with Greek yogurt or dairy-free alternatives. Add crushed tortilla chips before serving for extra crunch. Can add protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier dish. Adjust spice level with jalapeños or cayenne pepper.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta salad, taco ranch, black beans, summer recipe, BBQ dish, easy pasta salad, creamy dressing, vegetarian, party food

Find it online: https://pokirecipes.com/creamy-taco-ranch-pasta-salad-with-black-beans-easy-recipe-for-summer-parties/