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Ranch Taco Pasta Salad

Ranch Taco Pasta Salad: Your New Favorite Summer Delight

Ranch Taco Pasta Salad is a vibrant, customizable dish combining creamy ranch dressing and zesty taco seasoning, perfect for summer gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Rotini Pasta Feel free to swap with any short pasta.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Ranch Dressing Opt for a light version for a healthier choice.
  • 2 tbsp Taco Seasoning Adjust based on spice preference.
For the Veggies
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Substitute with diced regular tomatoes if needed.
  • 1 cup Green Bell Pepper Experiment with other bell pepper colors.
  • 1 cup Red Bell Pepper Can be omitted if you prefer just green.
  • 1 medium Red Onion Green onions can be used for a milder flavor.
For the Protein
  • 1 can Black Beans Can be swapped with kidney beans or omitted.
For Texture and Sweetness
  • 1 cup Corn Canned or frozen corn works well.
For the Finishing Touches
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Cilantro Optional; try parsley instead if preferred.
  • 1 cup Tortilla Chips or Crunchy Doritos Optional; can be replaced with crushed crackers.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • small bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the dressing by combining ranch dressing and taco seasoning in a small bowl until well blended.
  2. Cook the rotini pasta in salted boiling water for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse briefly in cold water.
  3. Mix the cooled pasta with the ranch dressing mixture in a large bowl, tossing gently to coat.
  4. Add cherry tomatoes, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, red onion, black beans, and corn to the pasta mixture, stirring well.
  5. Cover and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Garnish with chopped cilantro and crushed tortilla chips or crunchy Doritos before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 56gProtein: 15gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 7gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For the best flavors, prepare your salad a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days.

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