A vibrant pasta salad is packed with zesty Southwest flavors that bring a fun twist to your usual side dish. It's quick to make, full of fresh ingredients, and perfect for sharing at any gathering.
Prep Time15 min
Cook Time20 min
Total Time35 min
Difficulty
Medium
Expert Cooking Tips
Use pasta shapes that hold dressing well, like rotini or shells.
Rinse cooked pasta under cold water to stop cooking and keep it firm.
Add chopped fresh herbs at the end to keep their flavor bright and fresh.
Ingredients
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Why This Recipe Is A Favorite
Full of vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. It combines creamy, spicy, and tangy elements that make every bite exciting. It’s also easy to prepare and perfect for warm weather or casual gatherings.
Step 1
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Once it's bubbling, add a splash of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Toss in the fusilli and cook it uncovered, giving it a stir now and then, until it’s tender but still has a bit of bite—about 9 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside to cool.
Step 2
While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned all over and no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease, then stir in the taco seasoning. Take the skillet off the heat and let the beef cool down completely.
Step 3
In a separate bowl, mix together the salsa, ranch dressing, chopped bell peppers, green onions, jalapeños, and black olives. When the beef and pasta are ready, combine everything in a big bowl along with the shredded Cheddar cheese. Give it all a good toss, cover, and pop it in the fridge for at least an hour to let the flavors meld before serving.
240
people cooked this recipe
ByDaniel Wilson
Daniel focuses on practical recipes with clear steps and familiar ingredients.
How To Plate This Dish
Serve this salad chilled or at room temperature. It pairs well with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. You can also offer avocado slices or tortilla chips on the side for extra texture and taste.
How To Refrigerate This Dish
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to three days. Toss the salad before serving to redistribute the dressing and flavors evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, any short pasta like rotini, penne, or macaroni will work well.
How far in advance can I make this salad?
It’s best made a few hours ahead or the night before to let the flavors develop.
Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef?
Absolutely, ground turkey or chicken are great lean alternatives.
Is it necessary to drain the grease from the cooked beef?
Yes, draining excess grease helps keep the salad from becoming oily.
Can I omit the jalapenos if I don’t like spicy food?
Yes, you can leave them out or reduce the amount to suit your taste.
How long will this salad keep in the fridge?
It will stay fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace the beef with cooked beans or a meat substitute.
Should I rinse the pasta after cooking?
It’s best to drain but not rinse, so the dressing sticks better to the pasta.
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