Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad

Name: Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz rotini pasta; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 medium red onion, finely chopped; 1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), diced; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen); ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Juice of 2 limes (about ¼ cup); ¼ cup olive oil; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: May 26, 2025

by Sarah Connor

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad is incredibly easy to whip up and perfect for busy weeknights
Its flavor profile bursts with freshness, making every bite a delight
The visual appeal is stunning, showcasing vibrant colors that will impress your guests
Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as a side dish or a light main course!

Sharing this salad at a family gathering led to cheers and requests for seconds—it’s that good!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pasta: I recommend using rotini or penne for their ability to hold onto the dressing beautifully.
Black Beans: Rinse and drain them well; they add protein and a hearty texture.
Cherry Tomatoes: Choose ripe ones for sweetness; halving them enhances their juiciness.
Red Onion: Finely chop it for a sharp flavor; soaking it in cold water can mellow the taste.
Bell Peppers: Use a mix of colors for visual appeal and crunch; fresh ones bring life to the salad. For more inspiration, check out this fresh herbed tuna salad recipe.
Corn Kernels: Fresh or frozen works great; they add sweetness and are fun to eat!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens everything up; chop it finely for an aromatic kick.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice elevates the flavors; it’s the zesty secret weapon.
Olive Oil: Use high-quality oil for richness; it helps marry all the flavors together beautifully.
Spices (Cumin & Chili Powder): These spices add depth; adjust according to your spice tolerance!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. Peach BBQ Ribs Recipe.

Let’s Make It Together

Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions—about 8-10 minutes should do it. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

Prep the Veggies: While pasta cooks, chop cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and red onion into bite-sized pieces. Toss them together in a large bowl, adding corn and black beans for extra texture.

Create the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper until well blended. This dressing acts like magic glue for all those fabulous ingredients.

Toss It All Together: Combine cooked pasta with chopped veggies in the big bowl. Pour the dressing over everything generously—mix well until every piece is coated in flavor.

Add Final Touches: Fold in chopped cilantro for that fresh burst of flavor right before serving. Taste-test to adjust seasoning—add more lime or spice as desired!

Enjoying Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad will undoubtedly uplift any occasion! It’s colorful, flavorful, and packed with nutrition—what’s not to love? For more inspiration, check out this chicken sausages recipe recipe.

You Must Know

Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad is a colorful, zesty dish that’s perfect for summer picnics
Its mix of beans, veggies, and pasta creates a delightful crunch
Plus, it’s a wonderful make-ahead option that gets better as it chills in the fridge

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the pasta until al dente while you chop the veggies. This multitasking keeps everything fresh and vibrant.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ingredients; try different beans or add avocado for creaminess. Customize based on your mood or pantry.

Storing & Reheating

Store Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Enjoy it cold; no reheating necessary!

Chef's Helpful Tips

For a true flavor explosion, let the salad marinate overnight
Fresh herbs like cilantro can elevate the taste significantly
Always taste before serving; adjustments may be needed!

Sharing this recipe with friends at a BBQ got rave reviews—everyone asked for seconds! It was a hit that made me feel like a culinary rockstar.

FAQ

What can I serve with Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled meats or serves as a light main dish. Grilled Shrimp Tacos.

How long does Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for about three days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I make Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! Making it a day before enhances its flavors and saves you time.

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