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Arizona Pasta Salad Recipe

☀️ Dive into a vibrant Southwest flavor explosion with this easy Arizona Pasta Salad! Customize the heat to your liking with mild or hot salsa and a dash of cayenne pepper. Hate black olives? No problem! Swap them out for black beans for a delicious twist. This quick and refreshing pasta salad is perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a light weeknight dinner.

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 20 mins
Calories 534.9 kcal
Protein 21g
Rating 4.0 (1 Reviews)
Arizona Pasta Salad

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Arizona Pasta Salad

  • Small Shell Pasta
  • Mayonnaise
  • Chunky Salsa
  • Fresh Cilantro
  • Green Onions
  • 1 (15-ounce) can of corn, drained
  • 1 (15-ounce) can of black beans, rinsed and drained OR 1 cup sliced black olives
  • Red Pepper
  • Onion Salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

How to Make Arizona Pasta Salad

  1. Cook 1 pound of pasta according to package directions. Drain well and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Drain again.
  2. In a large bowl, combine 1 (15-ounce) can of corn, drained, 1 (15-ounce) can of black beans, rinsed and drained, 1 red bell pepper, diced, 1/2 cup chopped red onion, 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced (optional), 1 cup chopped cilantro, 1/2 cup mild or hot salsa, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon lime juice, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional), and 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta cheese). Mix thoroughly.
  3. Gently fold in the cooked pasta. Toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled and enjoy!
  4. If substituting black olives for black beans, use 1 cup of sliced black olives.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Elevate your dish with simple flavor boosters! A final flourish of freshly chopped herbs can add incredible brightness, while a squeeze of lemon or lime juice right before serving can awaken all the flavors. Don't underestimate a sprinkle of quality finishing salt or a drizzle of good olive oil to make your creation shine.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

62 g

Sugar

46g

Fat

18g

Carbs

24g

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30 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Course Main Ingredient Cuisine Preparation Occasion North American Low Protein Healthy Side Dishes Pasta Vegetables American Southwestern United States Easy Potluck Dinner Party Stove Top Dietary Spicy Low Cholesterol Low Saturated Fat Healthy 2 Low In Something Pasta Rice And Grains Pasta Shells Corn Onions Peppers Taste Mood To Go Equipment Presentation Served Cold 3 Steps Or Less