Best Taco Pasta Salad Recipe

A Flavor-Packed Fusion of Tacos and Pasta

Taco Pasta Salad is the ultimate Tex-Mex mashup that combines the bold, zesty flavors of tacos with the comforting texture of pasta. This vibrant, colorful dish features tender pasta shells tossed with black beans, sweet corn, juicy tomatoes, creamy avocado, and a tangy lime-cumin dressing. Topped with shredded Mexican cheese and fresh cilantro, every bite delivers a fiesta of flavors—spicy, tangy, and fresh. Perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or weeknight dinners, this salad is as versatile as it is delicious. It’s a no-fuss, one-bowl wonder that brings restaurant-quality taste to your table.

Why This Taco Pasta Salad Will Be Your New Go-To

What sets this recipe apart is its incredible balance of textures and flavors—crunchy corn, creamy avocado, chewy pasta, and a zesty dressing that ties it all together. It’s fully customizable: make it vegetarian, add grilled chicken or beef, or crank up the heat with jalapeños. Best of all, it comes together in under 30 minutes and tastes even better after chilling, making it ideal for meal prep. Whether served cold or at room temperature, this salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that disappears fast at any gathering. Say goodbye to boring pasta salads—this one’s packed with south-of-the-border flair.

Ready to bring bold Mexican flavors to your next meal?
Dive into the full recipe below and make this easy, delicious Taco Pasta Salad today!

Best Taco Pasta Salad Recipe

Recipe by Next DeliciousCourse: SaladsCuisine: United States (Tex-Mex)Difficulty: Easy

Servings

8

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

10

minutes

Calories

380

kcal

Ingredients

• 1 box (16 oz) medium pasta shells

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

• 10 oz frozen corn (thawed)

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained

• 8 oz shredded Mexican blend cheese

• ½ cup salsa (mild or medium)

• ½ cup olive oil

• 3–4 tbsp fresh lime juice

• 1 tbsp ground cumin

• 1–2 tsp chili powder

• 2 tsp minced garlic

• ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

• 1 ripe avocado, diced

• Garlic salt and black pepper, to taste

Directions

• Cook pasta shells according to package directions until al dente.
• Drain and rinse under cold water to cool; transfer to a large mixing bowl.
• Add black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, salsa, and shredded cheese to the pasta.
• In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, and minced garlic.
• Season dressing with garlic salt and pepper to taste.
• Pour dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.
• Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours) to let flavors meld.
• Just before serving, fold in chopped cilantro and diced avocado.
• Adjust seasoning if needed and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

• Add jalapeños, red onion, or cotija cheese for extra flavor and crunch.
• For protein, mix in cooked ground beef, shredded chicken, or chorizo.
• Add avocado and cilantro just before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.
• Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.

This zesty Taco Pasta Salad blends pasta with black beans, corn, avocado, and a tangy lime-cumin dressing. Packed with Mexican flavors, it’s perfect for potlucks or easy dinners. Ready in 25 minutes, it’s a fresh, crowd-pleasing dish that’s even better chilled!

Storing Tips for Taco Pasta Salad and Conclusion

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep avocado separate until serving.
• No Freezing: Not recommended—pasta and avocado lose texture when frozen.
• Refresh: Stir in a splash of lime juice and extra cilantro before serving leftovers.
• Meal Prep: Make dressing and chop veggies ahead; assemble up to 4 hours before serving.

Taco Pasta Salad is the ultimate crowd-pleaser that combines convenience with bold, zesty flavor in every bite. This versatile, make-ahead dish shines as a side or hearty main, and with its fresh ingredients and endless customizable toppings, it’s guaranteed to earn a top spot on your Delicious Salads list and become a family favorite for years to come.

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