Description
Cowboy Pasta Salad is a vibrant and satisfying dish that effortlessly blends the heartiness of orzo pasta with an array of fresh vegetables and zesty flavors. This refreshing salad is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, preparing for a potluck, or seeking a nutritious lunch option. With protein-packed black beans and a tangy lime dressing, each bite offers a delightful explosion of taste. Quick to prepare in just 25 minutes, this colorful salad can be enjoyed on its own or as a versatile side dish to complement your favorite proteins. Its make-ahead nature makes it an ideal choice for meal prep, ensuring that you always have a delicious and healthy option readily available.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup uncooked orzo
- 1 large tomato, diced
- 1 large bell pepper, 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, mix olive oil, lime juice, honey/maple syrup, chipotle powder, cumin powder, salt, and pepper. Shake well.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo with black beans, corn kernels, diced bell peppers, tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently until evenly coated. Serve immediately or chill before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Southwestern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg