Cowboy Pasta Salad
A vibrant and hearty dish combining creamy melted cheese and zesty chipotle dressing, perfect for gatherings or family meals.
Ingredients
Dressing
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil Rich and aromatic, perfect for dressing.
- 1/2 cup fresh lime juice Adds a bright, zesty note.
- 1 Tbsp finely chopped chipotle chiles in adobo Gives the salad a smoky, spicy kick.
- 1/2 tsp honey A touch of sweetness.
- to taste tsp Kosher salt Enhances all the ingredients.
Main ingredients
- 1 lb bowtie pasta Tender and charming shape.
- 1 lb ground beef Hearty, satisfying protein.
- to taste tsp Freshly ground black pepper Brings essential spice.
- 1 tsp chili powder Enriches the flavor profile.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder Aromatic addition.
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin Enhances flavor with earthy tones.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder Fragrant flavor booster.
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika Adds complexity.
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced Optional, for crunch and color.
- 1 medium red bell pepper, finely chopped Optional, for sweetness and crunch.
- 1 can (15-ounce) black beans, drained and rinsed Protein-packed and nutritious.
- 1 can (15-ounce) corn, drained Sweet kernels add texture.
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved Juicy and refreshing.
- 6 oz Monterey Jack, shredded Creamy and melty.
- 4 pieces scallions, thinly sliced For fresh crunch.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lime juice, chopped chipotle chiles, honey, and half a teaspoon of kosher salt to make the dressing.
Cooking
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain the pasta and transfer it to a large mixing bowl.
- Add half of the dressing to the hot pasta and toss to combine.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until no pink remains.
- Season the beef with salt and pepper while cooking.
- Once browned, drain any excess fat and stir in chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Combining
- Toss the cooked pasta with red onion, bell pepper, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, and remaining dressing.
- Stir in shredded Monterey Jack and scallions until the cheese is melted.
Serving
- Enjoy the Cowboy Pasta Salad warm or chilled.
Notes
For a lighter version, use whole grain or gluten-free pasta. Consider using turkey or chicken instead of beef. Perfect for potlucks and travels well.