Easy Taco Pasta Salad (Printable)

Fresh pasta mixed with veggies, cheddar, and a zesty lime dressing for vibrant Tex-Mex flavor.

# What You Need:

→ Pasta

01 - 12 oz rotini or fusilli pasta

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
03 - 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
04 - 1 cup canned corn, drained
05 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
06 - 1/2 small red onion, finely diced
07 - 1 avocado, diced
08 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

→ Cheese

09 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

→ Dressing

10 - 1/2 cup sour cream
11 - 1/4 cup mayonnaise
12 - 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
13 - 1 packet taco seasoning
14 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
15 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Garnish

16 - 1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips
17 - Extra cilantro for serving

# Directions:

01 - Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain in a colander, rinse under cold water, and set aside to cool completely.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, red bell pepper, red onion, avocado, cilantro, and shredded cheddar cheese.
03 - In a small mixing bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, taco seasoning, salt, and black pepper until smooth and fully combined.
04 - Add the cooled pasta to the vegetable and cheese mixture. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated.
05 - Transfer the salad to the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and develop.
06 - Just before serving, top with crushed tortilla chips and fresh cilantro as desired. Serve chilled.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings
  • Feeds a crowd with 6 generous servings that satisfy vegetarians and meat-lovers alike
  • Bursting with colorful vegetables, creamy cheese, and zesty taco-seasoned dressing
  • Can be made ahead and tastes even better after the flavors meld in the fridge
  • Endlessly customizable with add-ins and substitutions to suit any dietary need
02 -
  • Make the dressing a day ahead to let the taco seasoning fully bloom and develop deeper flavor
  • Use freshly squeezed lime juice rather than bottled for the brightest, most vibrant citrus notes
  • Dice the avocado just before serving and toss gently to prevent browning and mushiness
  • Reserve a handful of shredded cheese and cilantro to sprinkle on top for an appealing presentation
  • If transporting to a potluck, pack the tortilla chips separately and add them at the destination for maximum crunch
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