This Taco Pasta Salad is a delightful fusion dish combining the flavors of tacos with the convenience of a pasta salad. It’s a perfect dish for a light and satisfying meal.
Author:nadia
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:10 minutes
Total Time:25 minutes
Yield:6 servings 1x
Category:Main Course
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Mexican-American
Diet:Non-Vegetarian
Ingredients
UnitsScale
Pasta:
12oz rotini pasta
Ground Beef:
1lb ground beef
Taco Seasoning:
1 packet taco seasoning
Veggies:
1cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
1cup canned black beans (drained and rinsed)
1cup canned corn (drained)
1/2 red onion (diced)
1 avocado (diced)
Additional:
1cup shredded cheddar cheese
1cup crushed tortilla chips
3/4cup ranch dressing
1/4cup salsa
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
Cook Pasta: Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions, then drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
Cook Beef: Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain excess fat and mix in taco seasoning with water. Simmer, then let cool.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix pasta, seasoned beef, tomatoes, black beans, corn, cheese, red onion, and avocado.
Prepare Dressing: Whisk ranch dressing and salsa together, then pour over the salad. Toss gently to combine.
Final Touches: Season with salt and pepper. Before serving, add crushed tortilla chips and garnish with cilantro.
Notes
To prepare ahead, store dressing and chips separately and add just before serving.
Ground turkey or plant-based meat can be used as substitutes for a lighter version.