Description
Ranch Taco Pasta Salad is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines the flavors of tacos with the creaminess of ranch dressing. This vibrant pasta salad is perfect for a light lunch, a side dish, or a potluck gathering.
Ingredients
Pasta:
12 oz rotini pasta
Taco Seasoned Beef:
1 lb ground beef, 1 packet taco seasoning
Salad Mix-ins:
1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved), 1 cup canned corn (drained), 1 cup black beans (rinsed and drained), 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup diced red onion, 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
Dressing:
1 cup ranch dressing
Garnish:
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook Ground Beef: Brown ground beef in a skillet, add taco seasoning and water, and cook until well seasoned.
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine pasta, beef, tomatoes, corn, beans, cheese, onion, and bell pepper.
- Add Dressing: Pour ranch dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
- Season and Chill: Add cilantro, salt, and pepper. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- For added heat, include jalapeños or hot sauce to the ranch dressing.
- This salad can be prepared a day in advance and is ideal for gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop, No-Cook
- Cuisine: American, Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
