pasta taco salad
This Pasta Taco Salad combines the flavors of your favorite taco ingredients with pasta for a delightful twist on a classic dish. It’s fresh, filling, and perfect for a summer picnic or a quick weeknight dinner.
Equipment
- 1 large pot
- 1 colander
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 wooden spoon or spatula
- 1 cutting board
- 1 set measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni pasta
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix 1 oz packet.
- 1 can black beans 15 oz, drained and rinsed.
- 1 cup corn kernels Canned or frozen.
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes Halved.
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheese Cheddar or Mexican blend.
- 1 avocado diced
- ½ cup ranch dressing Or taco dressing.
- Tortilla chips for topping
- Fresh cilantro for garnish Optional.
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef or turkey. Cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the taco seasoning mix to the browned meat. Follow the package instructions for adding water and stirring until well combined. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, seasoned meat, black beans, corn, diced bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, and shredded lettuce. Toss until evenly mixed.
- Drizzle the ranch dressing over the salad and gently mix to combine. If desired, adjust the amount of dressing to taste.
- Top the salad with diced avocado, shredded cheese, and crush some tortilla chips for added crunch. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if using.
Notes
Feel free to customize the salad by adding ingredients such as jalapeños, olives, or other vegetables.
This salad can be made ahead of time; just add the dressing, avocado, and tortilla chips right before serving to keep everything fresh.
For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with more beans, lentils, or a meat alternative.