Description

Brighten your meal with Taco Pasta Salad, a vibrant and satisfying dish that combines al dente pasta, seasoned ground beef, fresh veggies, and creamy ranch dressing. Perfect for potlucks or family dinners, this colorful salad is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Enjoy a delightful medley of flavors and textures that will have everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz rotini pasta
1 lb lean ground beef
2 tbsp taco seasoning
1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
1 cup bell peppers (diced; mix of red, yellow, green)
1 can (15 oz) black beans (drained and rinsed)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup ranch dressing

Instructions

Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and mix in taco seasoning.
Chop the cherry tomatoes and bell peppers into bite-sized pieces while the beef cooks.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, seasoned beef, chopped veggies, black beans, and shredded cheese. Toss gently to mix.
Drizzle ranch dressing over the salad and toss again until everything is well-coated.
Serve chilled in bowls or on a platter. Garnish with extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (about 240g)
Calories: 380
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 7g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: For added crunch, top with crispy tortilla strips before serving. Customize by using ground turkey or tofu for a lighter option. Chill the salad for at least an hour to enhance flavor.