If you love the bold flavors of tacos and the comforting texture of pasta, this Taco Pasta Salad is the perfect fusion dish for you. Combining savory ground beef, spicy taco seasoning, and a variety of fresh ingredients, this salad is a vibrant and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a fun weeknight dinner. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this unique and delicious Taco Pasta Salad.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 pound Cellentani pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 15 ounces black beans, rinsed and drained
- ½ cup diced red onion
- 1 pint of grape tomatoes, cut in half (approximately 2 cups)
- 8 ounces Colby Jack cheese, cubed
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups Thousand Island dressing
- 2 tablespoons taco sauce
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
Optional Toppings:
- Cilantro
- Lettuce
- Sour cream
- Fritos
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the Cellentani pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Strain the pasta and cool it under cold running water to halt further cooking. Set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it is browned and fully cooked. Eliminate the excess fat, then blend in the taco seasoning. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the seasoning to fully coat the beef. Remove it from the heat source and let it rest until it slightly cools.
3. Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, seasoned ground beef, rinsed and drained black beans, diced red onion, halved grape tomatoes, and cubed Colby Jack cheese. Toss gently to mix all the ingredients evenly.
4. Make the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the Thousand Island dressing, taco sauce, and additional taco seasoning until well blended. This sauce will add a creamy and tangy flavor to the salad.
5. Mix the Salad with Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the pasta and beef mixture. Toss gently to ensure all the ingredients are well coated with the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
6. Add Optional Toppings: Transfer the salad to a serving dish and top with your choice of optional toppings. Fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and flavor, while shredded lettuce, a dollop of sour cream, and a handful of Fritos add crunch and creaminess.
7. Serve: Serve the Taco Pasta Salad immediately or refrigerate for a few hours to let the flavors meld together. You can savor this salad chilled or at room temperature.
Conclusion
Taco Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of Tex-Mex flavors and pasta goodness, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. The combination of ground beef, black beans, fresh vegetables, and a creamy taco-flavored sauce creates a mouthwatering salad that is both hearty and refreshing. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a new family favorite, this Taco Pasta Salad is sure to impress. Enjoy the unique and delicious flavors of this creative dish!