Description
Cowboy Pasta Salad is a vibrant and hearty dish that combines fresh vegetables, protein-packed black beans, and orzo pasta, all tossed in a zesty dressing. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or meal prep, this colorful salad is not only delicious but also nutritious. The bold flavors of lime juice and chipotle powder give it a delightful kick, making each bite a flavorful experience. Enjoy it as a refreshing main dish or an enticing side at your next barbecue.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup uncooked orzo
- 1 large tomato, diced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 1/4 medium red onion, diced
- 1 cup canned corn kernels, drained
- 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp. lime juice
- 1 tbsp. honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp. chipotle powder
- 1/2 tsp. cumin powder
- 1 tsp. sea salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper (or to taste)
Instructions
- Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a small jar, combine olive oil, lime juice, honey, chipotle powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Shake well.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked orzo with black beans, corn kernels, bell peppers, tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro. Toss gently.
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss to ensure everything is well-coated. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg