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–+ servings
Ranch Taco Pasta Salad

Refreshing Ranch Taco Pasta Salad for Easy Summer Meals

Enjoy a vibrant Ranch Taco Pasta Salad, perfect for summer gatherings, combining fresh veggies and zesty flavors.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Side Dishes
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Rotini Pasta Any short pasta can work in its place.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Ranch Dressing Use a lighter version for fewer calories.
  • 2 tablespoon Taco Seasoning Adjust according to taste.
For the Veggies
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Regular diced tomatoes can be substituted.
  • 1 medium Green Bell Pepper Other bell pepper colors can also be used.
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper Optional for simplicity.
  • 1 small Red Onion Green onions can be used for a milder flavor.
For the Protein
  • 1 can Black Beans Can be swapped for kidney beans or omitted.
For the Sweetness
  • 1 cup Corn Canned or frozen corn works perfectly.
For the Fresh Finish
  • ¼ cup Chopped Cilantro Fresh parsley can be used instead.
  • 1 cup Tortilla Chips or Crunchy Doritos Crushed crackers can be an alternative.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • colander
  • small bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a small bowl, combine ranch dressing with taco seasoning, stirring until well blended. Set aside.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add rotini pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled rotini pasta with ranch dressing. Toss to coat evenly.
  4. Fold in cherry tomatoes, green and red bell peppers, red onion, black beans, and corn. Stir thoroughly.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Before serving, sprinkle chopped cilantro and add crushed tortilla chips or Doritos on top.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 15gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 8gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 80mgCalcium: 6mgIron: 10mg

Notes

This salad can be made a day ahead for enhanced flavor. It's highly customizable with various proteins and veggies.

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