Description
This Taco Pasta Salad combines the bold flavors of your favorite taco ingredients with the refreshing twist of a pasta salad. It’s a perfect dish for summer barbecues, potlucks, or any occasion where you want a hearty and flavorful salad. Creamy, zesty, and loaded with fresh veggies, this salad is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
Dressing
- ¾ cup mayo
- ¾ cup sour cream
- ¾ cup salsa
- 1 packet taco seasoning
Salad
- 1 pound pasta, cooked according to package directions
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 small can sliced black olives, drained
- 2 avocados, diced
- 4 green onions, thinly sliced
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together mayo, sour cream, salsa, and taco seasoning until smooth. Set aside.
2. Mix the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, corn, tomatoes, cheese, olives, avocado, and green onions.
3. Combine
Add the prepared dressing to the salad, mixing until everything is evenly coated.
4. Chill
Place the salad in the fridge until chilled, about 15 minutes. Serve cold.
Nutritional Information:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Servings: 8
Notes
Serving Tips
1. Ideal Occasions: This Taco Pasta Salad is perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, picnics, and family gatherings. Its bold flavors and refreshing ingredients make it a crowd-pleaser.
2. Garnish Suggestions: Enhance the presentation and flavor by garnishing with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, or a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips for added crunch.
3. Serving Size: Serve the salad chilled for the best taste experience. This recipe yields 8 servings, making it ideal for a group. You can also serve it in individual bowls or on a large platter for a self-serve option.
4. Pairing Ideas: Pair this salad with grilled meats like chicken, steak, or shrimp. It also complements dishes like quesadillas, tacos, or a simple grilled cheese sandwich.
Storage Tips
1. Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
2. Avocado Preservation: To prevent the avocados from browning, consider adding them just before serving. If storing leftovers with avocado, sprinkle a little lime or lemon juice over the avocado pieces.
3. Dressing Separation: If the dressing separates after sitting in the fridge, give the salad a good stir before serving to reincorporate the ingredients.
4. Make-Ahead Option: For better texture and flavor, you can prepare the salad ingredients and the dressing separately a day in advance. Store them in the fridge and combine them just before serving.
5. Freezing: Freezing this salad is not recommended due to the fresh vegetables and creamy dressing, which may not retain their texture and consistency after thawing.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Taco Pasta Salad remains fresh and delicious, whether you’re enjoying it right away or saving it for later.
