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Mexican Pasta Salad Recipe

4.9 from 83 reviews

This vibrant and refreshing Mexican Pasta Salad combines perfectly cooked farfalle pasta with black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, and fresh cilantro, all tossed in a zesty homemade taco-seasoned dressing made of lite mayonnaise and salsa. It’s a colorful, easy-to-make dish ideal for picnics, potlucks, or a quick side for any Mexican-inspired meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad

  • 12 oz. farfalle pasta
  • 1 15 oz. can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 12 oz. bag frozen corn, thawed
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped

Dressing

  • 1 cup lite mayonnaise
  • 3/4 cup salsa (canned or jarred)
  • 34 Tbsp. homemade taco seasoning or 1 package store-bought taco seasoning

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Prepare the farfalle pasta according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta completely. Set aside to drain and dry.
  2. Combine salad ingredients: In a medium-large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, black beans, thawed corn, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped cilantro. Gently toss together to combine.
  3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lite mayonnaise, salsa, and taco seasoning until fully blended and smooth.
  4. Toss the salad: Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss thoroughly to coat all the ingredients evenly with the flavorful dressing.
  5. Chill and serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate until ready to serve, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly. Enjoy chilled as a side dish or a light meal.

Notes

  • Ensure the pasta is fully cooled before mixing with the dressing to prevent it from becoming soggy.
  • You can adjust the amount of taco seasoning based on your preferred spice level.
  • For extra crunch, consider adding diced bell peppers or red onions.
  • This salad keeps well for 2-3 days refrigerated in an airtight container.
  • Use fresh salsa or your favorite homemade recipe for a fresher taste.
  • Nutrition facts are approximate and should be used as a guideline.

Keywords: Mexican Pasta Salad, Pasta Salad, Farfalle Pasta Recipe, Vegetarian Pasta Salad, Easy Mexican Salad