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–+ servings
Southwest Pasta Salad

Zesty Southwest Pasta Salad: A Make-Ahead Summer Delight

A vibrant Southwest Pasta Salad featuring chipotle ranch dressing, grilled chicken, and colorful veggies, perfect for summer picnics.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Southwestern
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Rotini Pasta Can substitute with fusilli or bowties.
  • 1 can Black Beans Rinsed and drained.
  • 1 cup Corn Fresh or frozen.
  • 1 medium Bell Pepper Red or yellow.
  • 1/2 medium Red Onion Can substitute with green onions.
  • 1 cup Cherry/Grape Tomatoes Diced regular tomatoes can be used.
  • 1/4 cup Cilantro Optional; can substitute with parsley.
  • 1 cup Grilled Chicken Can substitute with tofu for a vegetarian option.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Chipotle Ranch Dressing Regular ranch can be used for a milder flavor.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Southwest Pasta Salad
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
  2. Prepare Vegetables: Drain and rinse black beans and corn. Chop bell pepper, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. Finely chop cilantro and dice chicken. Combine in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Add rotini to the bowl with veggies. Include black beans, corn, and chicken. Toss gently until evenly mixed.
  4. Add Dressing: Drizzle chipotle ranch dressing over salad. Fold dressing into salad gently to ensure even coating.
  5. Chill: Cover salad tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let flavors meld.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Stir salad before serving in individual bowls or a platter. It's perfect as a side or light lunch.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 16gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 10gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This salad can be prepared a day in advance for meal prep or gatherings. Customize with your favorite ingredients.

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