Flavorful Mexican Pasta Salad – A Zesty, Hearty, and Refreshing Dish!

This Mexican Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing side dish perfect for any gathering or as a light meal. It combines hearty black beans, sweet corn, and juicy tomatoes, all tossed in a creamy, slightly spicy chipotle lime dressing. The cilantro and red onion add a burst of freshness and crunch, while the chipotle in adobo sauce brings the perfect smoky heat. Whether you’re preparing it for a summer cookout or a quick weeknight dinner, this salad is sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces dried uncooked pasta (jumbo elbow macaroni, rotini, or cavatappi)
  
  

• 1 can (15.5 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
  
  

• 1 cup corn (thawed if frozen)
  
  

• 1 cup tomatoes, diced
  
  

• 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
  
  

• ¼ cup red onion, diced
  
  

• ¼ cup mayonnaise
  
  

• ½ cup sour cream
  
  

• 3 tablespoons chipotle in adobo sauce (just the sauce)
  
  

• ½ teaspoon chili powder
  
  

• ½ teaspoon cumin
  
  

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  
  

• ½ teaspoon onion powder
  
  

• ½ lime, juiced
  
  

• Salt and pepper, to taste
  
  

• Sliced avocado, for serving (optional)
  
  

Directions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Boil the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool the pasta quickly. Set aside.
   
   

2. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
   In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, cilantro, and red onion.
   
   

3. Make the Dressing:
   In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, chipotle in adobo sauce, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and lime juice until smooth and well-combined.
   
   

4. Toss the Salad:
   Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss everything together until the pasta and vegetables are well-coated with the creamy dressing. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   
   

5. Serve and Enjoy:
   Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Top with sliced avocado just before serving, if desired.
   
   

Nutritional Value (per serving):

• Calories: 339
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 49g
  
  

• Protein: 11g
  
  

• Fat: 12g
  
  

• Saturated Fat: 4g
  
  

• Cholesterol: 14mg
  
  

• Sodium: 181mg
  
  

• Potassium: 400mg
  
  

• Fiber: 7g
  
  

• Sugar: 5g
  
  

• Vitamin A: 689 IU
  
  

• Vitamin C: 7mg
  
  

• Calcium: 55mg
  
  

• Iron: 2mg