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Creamy Ranch Taco Pasta Salad

Creamy Ranch Taco Pasta Salad: A Cool Tex-Mex Treat

Savor the refreshing Creamy Ranch Taco Pasta Salad filled with rotini pasta, ground beef, tomatoes, and cheese—perfect for potlucks and gatherings!
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 3 cups cooked rotini pasta Substitute with any short pasta like penne or fusilli.
For the Protein
  • 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey Ground turkey is a leaner option.
  • 1 cup canned black beans Rinsed and drained; skip for a lighter version.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes Halved; can substitute with diced bell peppers.
  • 1 cup canned corn Drained; fresh corn can be used in season.
  • 1/2 cup red onion Diced; substitute with green onions for a milder flavor.
  • 1/4 cup sliced black olives Optional; omit for a cleaner flavor profile.
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro Can be replaced with parsley.
For the Dressing
  • 1 1/2 cups creamy ranch dressing Use a homemade or low-fat version.
  • 1 unit lime Juice enhances the freshness.
  • Salt and pepper To taste.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Boil salted water, add 3 cups of rotini pasta, and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a skillet, cook 1 lb of ground beef or turkey over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes until browned. Drain excess grease.
  3. Sprinkle taco seasoning over meat, add water if necessary, stir well, and let simmer on low for 2-3 minutes. Cool slightly.
  4. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, seasoned meat, 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes, 1 cup drained corn, 1 cup rinsed black beans, 1/2 cup diced red onion, 1/4 cup sliced black olives, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, and 1/2 cup chopped cilantro. Mix gently.
  5. Whisk together 1 1/2 cups ranch dressing and juice of 1 lime. Pour over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Cover and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 7gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Chill for at least 30 minutes for best flavor. Customize with your favorite ingredients and use fresh herbs for enhanced taste.

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