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Southwest Pasta Salad

Southwest Pasta Salad

Bright, no-bake Southwest Pasta Salad that’s healthy, quick, and bursting with fresh, spicy Southwestern flavor.
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Servings 8 side servings
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces whole-grain rotini pasta (Barilla or similar)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained (Goya or Eden Organics)
  • 1 cup frozen corn, thawed (or 1 fresh ear, kernels cut off)
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced for color and crispness
  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped so it won’t overwhelm
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or grape tomatoes)
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
  • 1/4 cup green onion, sliced on diagonal
  • 1 avocado, diced optional for creaminess
  • 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil (California Cold Pressed)
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon chipotle chili powder (adjust for heat)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon jarred)
  • 1 teaspoon honey or agave (balances the spice)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini and cook 8–10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking—this keeps the spirals springy and prevents clumping.
  • While pasta cooks, dice bell pepper, onion, and tomatoes. If you haven’t thawed the corn, run it briefly under warm water in a sieve.
  • In a medium bowl or a Mason jar, combine olive oil, lime juice, vinegar, cumin, paprika, garlic, chipotle powder, honey, salt, and pepper. Shake or whisk vigorously until emulsified—look for a creamy, opaque texture.
  • In a large mixing bowl, add pasta, beans, corn, peppers, onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and green onions. Pour the dressing over top, then gently toss with tongs or two large spoons until every spiral is coated.
  • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate at least 1 hour (I prefer 2–3 hours) so flavors blend; this step is key for a punchy taste.
  • Right before serving, fold in diced avocado so it doesn’t turn mushy. Give it one last gentle stir, adjust salt/pepper, and scoop onto your favorite serving dish.

Notes

Choose ripe, firm avocados so they hold shape; if using cherry tomatoes, look for glossy skins. Whole-grain pasta boosts fiber—swap for gluten-free if needed.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalProtein: 12gFiber: 6g
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