Description
If you’re craving a bold, zesty twist on traditional pasta salad, this Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad is for you! Inspired by the classic cowboy caviar dip, this vibrant dish is loaded with colorful veggies, beans, corn, and a tangy homemade dressing. It’s hearty, refreshing, and perfect for picnics, potlucks, and easy weeknight dinners.
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Ingredients
For the Salad:
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8 oz small pasta (rotini or shells work great)
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1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
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1 can (15 oz) black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
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1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
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1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or thawed frozen)
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1 red bell pepper, diced
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1 green bell pepper, diced
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½ red onion, finely chopped
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1 avocado, diced (add before serving)
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¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Dressing:
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¼ cup olive oil
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2 tbsp red wine vinegar
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1 tbsp lime juice
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1 tsp honey
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1 tsp chili powder
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½ tsp cumin
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½ tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
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Drain and rinse under cold water to cool quickly and stop cooking.
Step 2: Prep the Veggies and Beans
4. While pasta cooks, dice the tomatoes, bell peppers, onion, and avocado.
5. Drain and rinse the beans and corn.
6. Combine all chopped veggies, beans, and corn in a large mixing bowl.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
7. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lime juice, honey, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Salad Ingredients
8. Add the cooked and cooled pasta to the bowl with the veggies and beans.
9. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss everything together until well coated.
10. Gently fold in the diced avocado and chopped cilantro.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
11. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
12. Serve chilled, garnished with extra cilantro or a lime wedge if desired.
Notes
Cool the Pasta – Rinse with cold water to prevent it from getting mushy.
Use Fresh Ingredients – Especially when it comes to lime juice and avocado.
Add Avocado Last – Keeps it from browning and getting mushy.
Let It Chill – Flavors deepen after 30–60 minutes in the fridge.
Double the Dressing – If you love extra flavor or are serving the next day, reserve a bit to refresh the salad before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Cuisine: American-Southwest