Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad
A colorful Tex‑Mex inspired pasta salad combining the classic cowboy caviar ingredients—beans, corn, tomatoes, and peppers—with pasta and a zippy cilantro‑lime dressing. Great for potlucks, picnics, and make‑ahead meals.
Ingredients
Pasta & Salad Base
- 12 oz rotini pasta , bowties, or shells
- 15 oz black beans , rinsed and drained
- 15 oz whole kernel corn , drained (or 1½ cups fresh/grilled corn)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 small red bell pepper diced
- 1 small red onion finely diced
- 1 ripe avocado diced (add just before serving)
- ⅓ cup fresh cilantro chopped
Dressing
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 3 tbsp fresh lime juice about 1 large lime
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp honey or agave
- 1 garlic clove minced
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional Add‑Ins & Garnishes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or pepper jack
- 1 jalapeños seeded and minced
- 1 tbsp chopped pickled jalapeños
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and rinse briefly under cold water to cool.
- Rinse and drain the black beans and corn. Chop tomatoes, pepper, onion, cilantro, and avocado. If using fresh corn, char it briefly for extra flavor.
- Whisk together olive oil, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, beans, corn, tomatoes, pepper, onion, and cilantro. Pour most of the dressing over the mixture and toss to coat. Refrigerate at least 30 minutes.
- Right before serving, fold in avocado and cheese if using. Drizzle with remaining dressing, squeeze lime over the top, and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Make ahead: assemble up to 24 hours in advance (omit avocado). Keep dressing separate or reserve some to refresh the salad before serving.
- Storage: Keeps in an airtight container for 3–4 days; textures will soften over time.
- Variations: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or extra beans for a heartier meal.
- Use grilled corn for smokier flavor.
Nutrition
Calories: 360kcalCarbohydrates: 44gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 420mgSugar: 6g
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