Description

Zesty taco pasta salad combines the bold flavors of taco night with the freshness of a pasta salad. This vibrant dish features tender rotini pasta, seasoned ground meat, and colorful veggies tossed in a creamy lime dressing. Perfect for summer gatherings or quick weeknight dinners, this recipe is easy to customize and sure to impress family and friends with its delightful taste and eye-catching presentation.

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz rotini pasta
1 lb lean ground beef or turkey
1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup bell peppers, chopped
½ cup red onion, finely diced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
Juice of 2 limes

Instructions

Cook rotini pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and cool.
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground meat, breaking it apart until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and mix in taco seasoning as per package instructions.
While the meat cooks, chop cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and red onion. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
Combine cooked pasta with the veggie mixture and seasoned meat; stir gently.
In a separate bowl, mix sour cream (or Greek yogurt) with lime juice. Pour over the pasta salad and toss until well coated.
Serve immediately or chill for an hour before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Boiling
Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
Calories: 380
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 680mg
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 9g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: - Customize by adding corn or avocado for extra flavor. - For a vegetarian option, replace meat with grilled veggies or tofu. - Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.