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Cowboy Pasta Salad

Cowboy Pasta Salad

Cowboy Pasta Salad is a vibrant and customizable dish packed with fresh vegetables and proteins, perfect for any gathering.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces Rotini or Penne Pasta this sturdy pasta holds the flavors exceptionally well.
For the Protein
  • 2 cups Cooked Chicken shredded or diced; can substitute with grilled shrimp or canned beans for a vegetarian option.
For the Veggies
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes halved; they add a pop of freshness and a splash of color.
  • 1 can (15 ounces) Black Beans drained and rinsed; substitute with pinto beans for a different flavor.
  • 1 cup Corn frozen or canned; use fresh corn in summer for the best taste.
  • 1 cup Bell Peppers diced (a mix of colors); offer crispness and sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup Red Onion finely chopped; swap with green onions for a milder flavor.
For the Flavor
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese shredded; omit for a vegan version or substitute with vegan cheese.
  • 1 cup Ranch Dressing the primary dressing that brings it all together.
  • 1/2 cup BBQ Sauce adds layers of sweetness and smokiness.
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Powder adjust according to heat preference.
  • Salt and Pepper to taste; essential for enhancing flavors.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Knife
  • cutting board

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook for 8–10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to halt the cooking process.
  2. While the pasta cools, finely chop all your vegetables. Dice the bell peppers, halve the cherry tomatoes, and finely chop the red onion. Drain and rinse the black beans and set aside the corn.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the prepared vegetables, adding the chicken and cheese. Ensure everything is evenly distributed.
  4. Drizzle the ranch dressing and BBQ sauce over the mixture. Sprinkle in the chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat.
  5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  6. Serve the Cowboy Pasta Salad cold, garnished with extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 8gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This salad is easily customizable. Feel free to adjust ingredients according to dietary needs.

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