Taco Pasta Salad
A delicious and easy-to-make pasta salad recipe that combines the flavors of tacos in a refreshing dish.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz small pasta shapes (like bowties, shells, or elbows)
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning blend)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing (or buttermilk for a DIY version)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions, drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside to cool completely.
- Cook the ground beef in a skillet until browned, then stir in the taco seasoning. Let it cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sour cream, ranch dressing, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, seasoned beef, lettuce, tomatoes, cilantro, and cheddar cheese.
- Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Helpful tips:
- For a vegetarian option, replace the ground beef with cooked black beans or chickpeas.
- Add some diced avocado or guacamole for an extra creamy texture.
- You can add some crushed tortilla chips on top for a crunchy element.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding more or less taco seasoning and cumin.
- Make ahead of time and chill in the fridge for a few hours before serving for the best flavor.
Expert Secrets:
- Use a mix of different colored tomatoes for a visually appealing salad.
- Top with some pickled jalapenos for a spicy kick.
- Double the dressing recipe if you prefer your pasta salad to be more creamy.
- Experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack or Mexican blend.
- Fresh lime zest can be added to the dressing for an extra citrusy flavor.