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Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad

Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad made with rotini pasta, beans, corn, tomatoes, bacon, and jalapeños

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A fun and colorful dish that combines hearty pasta with zesty cowboy caviar, perfect for gatherings or a tasty side at dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups uncooked ditalini pasta
  • 11/2 cups frozen corn
  • 2 bell peppers (diced: 1 red & 1 green)
  • 3/4 cup finely diced red onion
  • 1 bunch finely chopped cilantro (measure 1 cup before chopping)
  • 1 (15.25-ounce) can black beans (drained and rinsed)
  • 1 (15.5-ounce) can black-eyed peas (drained and rinsed)
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/3 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic paste (or minced garlic)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon-style mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Add all dressing ingredients to a wide-mouth jar. Season the dressing to taste with salt and pepper.
  2. Shake until combined and chill the dressing while preparing the salad.
  3. Bring 12 cups of water to a boil in a large pot. Add 1 tablespoon of salt and the ditalini pasta.
  4. Cook the pasta according to package directions and add the frozen corn one minute before it’s done.
  5. Drain the pasta and corn, then rinse them under cold water for 20 seconds. Shake off any excess water.
  6. Transfer the cooled pasta and corn to a large bowl and toss with ⅓ cup of the dressing.
  7. Cover the bowl and refrigerate to cool completely.
  8. Add bell peppers, onion, cilantro, black beans, and black-eyed peas to the bowl once the pasta is chilled.
  9. Drizzle on more dressing to taste, tossing gently and adjusting seasoning.
  10. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

For added flavor, consider adding fresh lime juice, diced jalapeños, or extra dressing on the side. This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 5 days.

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