Southwestern Pasta Salad

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Southwestern Pasta Salad

Ingredients:

  • 16 oz rotini pasta
  • 1 can black beans (15 oz, drained and rinsed)
  • 1 can corn (15 oz, drained and rinsed)
  • 1 cup bell pepper (any color, diced)
  • 1 cup red onion (diced)
  • 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes (halved or quartered)
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
  • 2 cups grilled chicken (chopped or shredded)
  • 1 cup chipotle ranch dressing

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Pasta:
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
    • Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow the pasta to dry completely.
  2. Prepare the Beans and Corn:
    • While the pasta is cooking, open the can of black beans and corn. Drain and rinse both in a colander. Set aside.
  3. Chop the Vegetables:
    • Dice the bell pepper into small, bite-sized pieces.
    • Peel and dice the red onion finely.
    • Halve or quarter the cherry or grape tomatoes, depending on their size.
  4. Chop the Cilantro:
    • Rinse the fresh cilantro under cold water. Shake off excess water and chop finely.
  5. Prepare the Chicken:
    • If using pre-cooked grilled chicken, chop or shred it into bite-sized pieces. If grilling chicken for the salad, season lightly with salt and pepper, grill until fully cooked, then chop.
  6. Combine Ingredients:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, black beans, corn, diced bell pepper, red onion, tomatoes, chopped cilantro, and chicken.
  7. Add the Dressing:
    • Pour the chipotle ranch dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
  8. Chill the Salad:
    • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Chill for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. The salad can be chilled for up to a few hours before serving.
  9. Serve:
    • Remove the pasta salad from the fridge, give it a final stir, and serve cold. Enjoy your Southwestern Pasta Salad as a refreshing and flavorful meal or side dish!

Feel free to adjust the ingredients to your taste, such as adding avocado, cheese, or extra spices for more flavor.

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