Description

This Cowboy Pasta Salad is an irresistible blend of flavors with protein pasta, seasoned beef, and colorful veggies. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or a healthy meal that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound protein pasta , or short-cut pasta
1 pound lean ground beef
1 1/2 tablespoons taco seasoning
2 large dill pickles, drained and chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
2 sticks of celery, finely chopped
15 ounces black beans, one can, rinsed and drained
14.5 ounces corn, one can, rinsed and drained
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 small red onion, diced
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 large lemon, juiced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 cup dill relish
1 clove garlic, minced
1-2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Cook the protein pasta according to package directions, then drain and set aside in a large bowl.
Heat a pan over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until no longer pink, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the taco seasoning and continue cooking until browned. Season with salt and pepper and remove from heat.
Prepare the veggies and cheese: chop the dill pickles, green bell pepper, celery, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro. Dice the cheddar cheese. Add all these ingredients to the bowl with the pasta, black beans, corn, and browned beef.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients: olive oil, lemon juice, smoked paprika, dill relish, garlic, apple cider vinegar, honey, and season with salt and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad. Toss well to combine and serve.

Notes

For added flavor, consider using your favorite taco toppings like avocado or jalapeños.
This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Feel free to customize the veggies based on your preference or seasonal availability.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 420
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 450mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 6g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 60mg