🥑🌽 Creamy Southwest Black Bean Pasta Salad
This hearty and vibrant pasta salad is packed with protein, fiber, and color. It’s the perfect picnic side, meal prep lunch, or meatless dinner option that blends Tex-Mex flavors with creamy goodness. Ready in under 30 minutes!
⏱ Prep Time:
15 minutes
⏲ Cook Time:
10 minutes (for pasta)
🍽 Servings:
6 servings (side) or 4 servings (main)
📝 Ingredients
Pasta Salad:
- 12 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or thawed frozen)
- 1 avocado, diced
- ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Creamy Southwest Dressing:
- ½ cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
👩🍳 Instructions:
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and let cool.
- In a small bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients until smooth and creamy.
- In a large bowl, combine pasta, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.
- Gently fold in diced avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
- Chill for 20 minutes if desired, or serve immediately.
💡 Notes & Tips:
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a splash of hot sauce to the dressing.
- Make it vegan: Use plant-based yogurt and mayo.
- Add grilled chicken, shredded cheese, or toasted pepitas for variation.
- Meal prep friendly! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days (add avocado right before serving).
🍽 Nutritional Info (Per Serving – approx.):
- Calories: 320–360
- Protein: 9–11g
- Fat: 14–17g
- Carbs: 38–42g
- Fiber: 7–9g
- Sugar: 4g
🌟 Health Benefits:
- Black beans = fiber + plant protein + heart health support
- Avocados = healthy fats + potassium
- Corn & tomatoes = antioxidants + vitamins
- Greek yogurt or sour cream provides a creamy texture with calcium and probiotics
- Great for a balanced meatless meal that still satisfies
❓Q&A:
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Best without the avocado mixed in—add that right before serving for freshness.
Q: Is it good cold?
A: Yes, it’s actually better chilled and perfect for warm days or meal prepping.
Q: Can I use a different pasta?
A: Absolutely. Bowties, penne, or even whole wheat or gluten-free pasta work great.
Q: What’s a good pairing?
A: Serve with grilled meats, quesadillas, or cornbread for a complete meal!
Want a printable card or meal-prep version of this recipe with macros? Just say the word! 💬🌯🥗