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Mexican Pasta Salad

A vibrant Mexican Pasta Salad with bold flavors of cumin, lime, and fresh cilantro - perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, and busy weeknight dinners
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: 285

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 pound rotini or penne pasta
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • 1 large red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 medium red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Dressing
  • cup olive oil
  • ¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process immediately.
  2. While pasta cooks, dice your red bell pepper into bite-sized pieces and finely chop the red onion. If using fresh corn, cut kernels from the cob. For frozen corn, thaw completely and pat dry with paper towels.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lime juice, apple cider vinegar, cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper, tasting as you go.
  4. In your largest mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, black beans, corn, diced bell pepper, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and shredded cheese. Pour the dressing over everything and toss gently but thoroughly. Fold in fresh cilantro last.

Notes

Tastes better after chilling for at least 30 minutes. Store covered in refrigerator for up to 3 days. Flavors improve overnight. Before serving leftovers, let come to room temperature and add a splash of lime juice. Don't skip rinsing pasta with cold water to prevent wilting vegetables. Add cilantro last to maintain freshness. Budget-friendly substitutions include using canned corn, cheddar cheese instead of Mexican blend, or green onions instead of cilantro.