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Flavorful Southwest Pasta Salad with Chipotle Lime Dressing

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A quick and easy southwest pasta salad featuring rotini, black beans, fresh veggies, and a smoky, tangy chipotle lime dressing. Perfect for a light meal or side dish with a zesty kick.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces rotini pasta
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup fresh corn kernels (can use frozen, thawed)
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • Fresh cilantro, roughly chopped (optional)
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar or cotija cheese (optional)
  • 1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce plus 1 tablespoon sauce
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 1/3 cup olive oil (80 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions (8-10 minutes) until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Drain pasta and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool. Set aside in a large bowl.
  3. While pasta cooks, rinse and drain black beans. Dice red bell pepper, halve cherry tomatoes, finely chop red onion, mince jalapeño (optional), and roughly chop cilantro.
  4. If using fresh corn, cut kernels off 1 ear; if frozen, thaw about 1 cup.
  5. In a blender or food processor, combine chipotle peppers in adobo, lime juice, olive oil, honey, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Pour dressing over cooled pasta. Add black beans, corn, bell pepper, tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. Toss gently to coat evenly.
  7. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top if using, then toss lightly again.
  8. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Rinse pasta after cooking to prevent sticking and cool it. Adjust chipotle peppers to control heat. For dairy-free, omit cheese or use vegan alternative. Use gluten-free pasta to make gluten-free. Add grilled chicken or shrimp for protein boost. Toss salad and dressing separately if making ahead to keep fresh.

Nutrition

Keywords: southwest pasta salad, chipotle lime dressing, easy pasta salad, black bean salad, summer salad, quick dinner, healthy pasta salad

Find it online: https://lucastable.com/flavorful-southwest-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-chipotle-lime-dressing-guide/