Southwest Tortellini Pasta Salad 🌶️🍝

This vibrant and flavorful Southwest Tortellini Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on the traditional pasta salad. Packed with bold flavors of the Southwest, this dish combines cheese-filled tortellini with fresh vegetables, zesty beans, and a creamy dressing that brings it all together. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or simply as a refreshing lunch option, this salad is sure to impress your family and friends! 🌽🥑

Ingredients

For the pasta salad

• 12 oz. cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup corn (canned or frozen, thawed)
• 1 cup black beans (rinsed and drained)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 avocado, diced (optional)

For the dressing

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• A pinch of cayenne pepper (for an extra kick)

Instructions

1. Cook the tortellini: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool down.
2. Prepare the veggies: In a large mixing bowl, combine the corn, black beans, red bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.
3. Mix the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) until smooth.
4. Combine everything: Add the cooled tortellini to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss until evenly coated.
5. Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lime juice as desired. If using avocado, gently fold it in at this stage.
6. Chill and serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld, then serve chilled.

🥗 This salad tastes even better the next day! Feel free to make it ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Variations

• Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for an extra layer of heat. 🔥
• Protein-rich: Toss in grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
• Vegan: Replace the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative. Use avocado for creaminess and a little extra lime for zest!
• Pasta alternatives: Swap the tortellini for other pasta types, like bowtie or fusilli, to give it a different shape and texture.

Enjoy this delicious Southwest Tortellini Pasta Salad anytime you crave a burst of flavor and a refreshing dish! 🍽️🌈