Taco Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together the beloved flavors of taco night with the heartiness of pasta. I fell in love with this recipe on a busy weeknight when I craved something quick yet satisfying. It’s a perfect blend of chewy rotini, seasoned beef, and a medley of colorful vegetables, all topped off with a zesty lime dressing. Not only is it delicious, but it also serves as a fantastic party dish that can easily feed a crowd or be saved for leftovers.
Why you’ll love this dish
There are countless reasons to try Taco Pasta Salad. It’s incredibly quick to whip up, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights when you need a meal that’s both tasty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe is also budget-friendly; it uses everyday ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Plus, the combination of flavors is sure to please kids and adults alike, making it a fantastic family-friendly option.
"Absolutely delicious! My kids loved the flavors, and I loved how easy it was to throw together. Will definitely add this to our regular rotation!" – A happy home cook
The cooking process explained
Making Taco Pasta Salad is as straightforward as it is enjoyable. You’ll start with cooking the rotini until it’s perfectly al dente, then brown the ground beef in a skillet, adding cozy taco seasoning for that signature flavor. After combining everything together in a big mixing bowl, you’ll create a colorful and textural delight that can be enjoyed right away or chilled to enhance the flavor even more.
What you’ll need
To create this delicious dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 250g rotini pasta
- 300g ground beef
- 1 tbsp taco seasoning
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (you can use cheddar or a Mexican blend)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to modify ingredients based on your dietary needs—ground turkey or even a plant-based meat substitute can work wonderfully.
