Picture this: It’s a warm summer evening, and you’re craving something hearty yet refreshing. Enter the Nacho Pasta Salad – a delightful fusion of Tex-Mex flavors and Italian comfort food that’s about to become your new favorite meal!
Ingredients (Serves 2-4)
- 8 oz pasta (rotini or fusilli work great)
- 1/2 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups iceberg lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced (optional)
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Tortilla chips, crushed (for garnish)
For the dressing:
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 1/3 cup salsa
- Juice of 1 lime
Let’s Get Cooking!
- Pasta Party: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
- Beef It Up: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. As it sizzles, imagine the aroma of a bustling taqueria filling your kitchen. Once cooked, drain any excess fat and stir in the taco seasoning. Set aside to cool.
- Veggie Fiesta: While your beef and pasta cool, it’s time for some colorful chopping! Dice your green pepper, halve those juicy cherry tomatoes, and chop the crisp iceberg lettuce. Each vibrant vegetable adds a pop of color and freshness to your salad.
- Dress to Impress: In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, salsa, and lime juice. This zesty dressing will tie all the flavors together like a perfect harmony in a mariachi band!
- The Grand Assembly: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, seasoned ground beef, and all your prepped veggies. Pour over your creamy dressing and toss gently to coat every nook and cranny with flavor.
- Chill Out: Cover your masterpiece and let it rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to mingle and get to know each other better.
- The Final Touch: Just before serving, give your salad a quick toss. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese, fresh cilantro, and a handful of crushed tortilla chips for that signature nacho crunch.
Serve and Enjoy!
Bring your Nacho Pasta Salad to room temperature before serving. This allows all those amazing flavors to shine through. Dish it up in colorful bowls, and watch as your guests’ eyes light up at the sight of this Tex-Mex twist on a classic pasta salad.
Pro Tip: Set out extra toppings like jalapeños, extra cheese, or a bottle of hot sauce for those who like to customize their culinary adventure!
Ready to take your taste buds on a fiesta? This Nacho Pasta Salad is more than just a meal – it’s a celebration in every bite! So grab your ingredients and let’s get this party started.
¡Buen provecho! 🌮🍝
Also See: Homemade One-Pot Taco Spaghetti: A Fiesta in Every Bite!
