Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad

Name: Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Southwestern
Ingredients: 2 cups uncooked ditalini pasta; 1-1/2 cups frozen corn; 2 bell peppers (diced; 1 red & 1 green); 3/4 cup finely diced red onion (1 small); 1 bunch finely chopped cilantro (1 cup before chopping); 1 (15.25-ounce) can black beans (drained and rinsed); 1 (15.5-ounce) can black-eyed peas (drained and rinsed); 1/2 cup olive oil; 1/3 cup red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon garlic paste (or minced garlic); 1 tablespoon Dijon-style mustard; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Posted on May 13, 2026

Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad with rotini pasta, black beans, corn, tomatoes, and crispy bacon

Main dish

Difficulty

Prep time

Cooking time

Total time

Servings

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

why make this recipe

Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad is a fun and colorful dish that brings together the vibrant flavors of southwestern cuisine. It’s a great choice for potlucks, barbecues, or a light dinner. The combination of pasta, beans, fresh veggies, and a tangy dressing makes it not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for warm weather meals. You’ll love how quick it comes together!

Table of Contents

how to make Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad

Ingredients:

2 cups uncooked ditalini pasta (see note 1)
1-1/2 cups frozen corn
2 bell peppers (diced; I use 1 red & 1 green)
3/4 cup finely diced red onion (1 small)
1 bunch finely chopped cilantro (measure 1 cup before chopping)
1 (15.25-ounce) can black beans (drained and rinsed)
1 (15.5-ounce) can black-eyed peas (drained and rinsed)
1/2 cup olive oil
1/3 cup red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon garlic paste (or minced garlic)
1 tablespoon Dijon-style mustard
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper

Directions:

Add all the dressing ingredients to a wide-mouth jar. Season with salt and pepper to taste (I recommend starting with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper). Shake well until combined and chill while you prepare the salad.
Bring 12 cups of water to a boil and add 1 tablespoon of salt and the pasta. Cook the pasta according to package directions. One minute before it’s done, add the frozen corn. Drain the pasta and corn, then rinse them under cold water for about 20 seconds. Shake off the excess water.
Transfer the pasta and corn to a large bowl. Toss with ⅓ cup of the dressing. Cover and refrigerate until it cools completely.
Once the pasta is chilled, add the diced bell peppers, red onion, cilantro, black beans, and black-eyed peas to the bowl.
Drizzle more dressing over the salad to taste. You might not need it all at once, so feel free to add more later if it dries out. Toss gently, taste, and adjust the seasoning as necessary. Serve and enjoy!

how to serve Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad

This pasta salad can be served as a hearty side dish or even as a main meal. It pairs well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own. If you want to make it even more filling, consider adding some grilled chicken or shrimp. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

how to store Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad

Leftover Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will develop as it sits, but be sure to check the texture of the pasta and adjust the dressing if needed. If it looks dry, you can add a splash more of the prepared dressing.

tips to make Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Freshly chopped cilantro and crisp bell peppers make a big difference.
Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving, as this allows the flavors to meld together.
If you’re short on time, you can use canned corn instead of frozen. Just drain and rinse before adding.

variation (if any)

You can customize this salad based on your preferences. Try adding diced avocado for creaminess, or swap the black beans for pinto beans. For a spicy kick, include jalapeños or add some hot sauce to the dressing.

This vibrant Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad combines tender pasta, colorful vegetables, beans, and bold dressing for the perfect healthy lunch or summer side dish.

For more fresh recipe inspiration, try this healthy Viral Cowboy Caviar Salad Meal Prep or enjoy this vibrant Cowboy Caviar Couscous Salad. You can also discover this light Easy No Mayo Potato Salad for another refreshing side dish idea.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any small pasta you like, such as small shells or macaroni.

Is this salad gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free pasta and check that the canned ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad is great for meal prep! Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to keep the pasta from getting mushy.