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Cowboy Pasta Salad

Savory Cowboy Pasta Salad: A Delightful Taco Twist

This Cowboy Pasta Salad combines bold flavors and versatility, perfect for summer meals and gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Farfalle Pasta Cook until al dente.
For the Filling
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Substitute turkey or plant-based options if desired.
  • 2 tbsp Taco Seasoning Use homemade spices if preferred.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Alternatives: grape tomatoes or diced bell peppers.
  • 1 small Red Onion Green onions can be used for a milder taste.
For the Creamy Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt can be used for a healthier option.
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream Use low-fat options if preferred.
  • 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar Can substitute with lemon juice.
  • 1 tbsp Hot Sauce Adjust to taste.
For the Finish
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Substitute with non-dairy cheese for lactose-free.
  • 1/4 cup Cilantro Parsley can be used as a replacement.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • spatula
  • Colander

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Cook the farfalle pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and cool.
  2. In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat for 6–8 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat and add taco seasoning.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, taco seasoning, and hot sauce until smooth.
  4. In a mixing bowl with pasta, add cooked beef, tomatoes, and onion. Drizzle with dressing and toss to combine.
  5. Fold in cheddar cheese and cilantro before serving. Can be served warm or chilled.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Chill for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavors. Cook pasta al dente to avoid mushiness.

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