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Ranch Taco Pasta Salad

Ranch Taco Pasta Salad: A Creamy Fiesta Twist for Summer

This Ranch Taco Pasta Salad is a refreshing and flavorful summer dish that perfectly balances zesty ranch dressing with bold taco seasoning, ideal for gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 ounces Rotini Pasta Feel free to use your favorite pasta shape.
  • 1 cup Ranch Dressing You can substitute with homemade or dairy-free dressing.
  • 2 tablespoons Taco Seasoning Consider using homemade for enhanced flavor.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Any diced tomatoes can be used.
  • 1 each Green Bell Pepper Can be swapped for yellow or red bell peppers.
  • 1 each Red Bell Pepper Can be omitted or replaced with other mild peppers.
  • 1/2 each Red Onion Substitute with green onions for a milder taste.
  • 1 can Black Beans Kidney beans or chickpeas can be used as substitutes.
  • 1 cup Corn Fresh, frozen, or canned corn works well.
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Cilantro Optional garnish.
  • 1 cup Tortilla Strips or Crunchy Chips Add just before serving for the best crunch.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • plastic wrap

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Begin by combining ranch dressing with taco seasoning in a small mixing bowl. Set aside to allow flavors to meld.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of rotini pasta and cook until al dente, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rotini pasta with the ranch dressing mixture and toss until evenly coated.
  4. Add chopped cherry tomatoes, diced bell peppers, red onion, black beans, and corn to the pasta mixture. Fold ingredients together until evenly distributed.
  5. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Before serving, toss gently and sprinkle with chopped cilantro and tortilla strips or crunchy chips.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 7gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This salad can be prepared a day ahead and is best served chilled, enhancing the flavors.

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