Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad

If you're craving something vibrant and hearty, this Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad is your go-to dish. Packed with fresh veggies, creamy avocado, and zesty flavors, this salad is perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or even a quick weeknight meal. The combination of pasta, beans, and a bold dressing ensures every bite is full of flavor and texture.

Plus, it's easy to make ahead, so you can focus on enjoying your time with family and friends.

Serves: 8-10
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour

Photo byGLP

Ingredients for the Salad:

• 1 lb box small pasta, such as elbow or shells, cooked and cooled
• ½ small red onion, diced
• 4 scallions, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
• 1 ½ cups corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• 1 jalapeno, finely chopped
• 2 ripe avocados, diced
• 1 large cucumber, diced
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup queso fresco, crumbled (or substitute feta)

Ingredients for the Dressing:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper

Directions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooked pasta, veggies, beans, and cheese.
2. In a smaller bowl, whisk the yogurt (or mayo), lime juice, vinegar, and spices until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
4. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least one hour to let the flavors meld.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Substitutions:

• Swap kidney beans for pinto beans or even chickpeas if preferred.
• Add shredded rotisserie chicken for extra protein.
• For a spicier kick, keep the jalapeno seeds or add a dash of hot sauce.

Storage Tips:

Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If using avocado, consider adding it just before serving to prevent browning.

https://12tomatoes.com/cowboy-caviar-pasta-salad/