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Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad

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

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A vibrant and delicious pasta salad with the flavors of southwestern cuisine, perfect for potlucks or light meals.

Ingredients

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  • 2 cups uncooked ditalini pasta
  • 11/2 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

Instructions

  1. Add all the dressing ingredients to a wide-mouth jar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Shake well until combined and chill while you prepare the salad.
  2. 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.
  3. Transfer the pasta and corn to a large bowl. Toss with ⅓ cup of the dressing. Cover and refrigerate until it cools completely.
  4. Once the pasta is chilled, add the diced bell peppers, red onion, cilantro, black beans, and black-eyed peas to the bowl.
  5. Drizzle more dressing over the salad to taste. Toss gently, taste, and adjust the seasoning as necessary. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and allow the salad to chill for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld together.

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