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Cowboy Pasta Salad

Savor the Flavor of Hearty Cowboy Pasta Salad Delight

Cowboy Pasta Salad is a vibrant dish that's a crowd-pleaser, combining classic pasta salad elements with bold taco flavors.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Farfalle Pasta can substitute with any preferred pasta shape
For the Protein
  • 1 lb Ground Beef can replace with turkey or plant-based alternative
For the Veggies
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes can substitute with any type of tomato
  • 1 small Red Onion can substitute with green onions or shallots
  • 1/4 cup Cilantro omit for non-herb option or use parsley instead
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt can serve as a lighter substitution
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream replace with additional mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar any vinegar can work but will alter the taste
  • 1 tbsp Taco Seasoning homemade seasoning for customization
  • to taste Hot Sauce adjust according to taste
For the Cheese
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese can use Monterey Jack or other favorite cheese

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Spatula
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add farfalle pasta and cook until al dente, about 10–12 minutes. Drain and cool slightly in a mixing bowl.
  2. Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook for about 5–6 minutes. Stir in taco seasoning and cook for 1 additional minute. Remove from heat and let it cool.
  3. Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, taco seasoning, and hot sauce until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Combine Ingredients: In the large bowl with cooled pasta, add cooked ground beef, beans, corn, tomatoes, and red onion. Toss gently until evenly mixed.
  5. Add the Dressing: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until all ingredients are well-coated.
  6. Stir in Final Touches: Fold in shredded cheddar cheese, scallions, and chopped cilantro. Adjust creaminess with additional dressing if desired.
  7. Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 18gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

This Cowboy Pasta Salad is a family favorite that can be customized with different proteins and veggies based on preference.

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