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Southwest Tortellini Pasta Salad Recipe (Quick and Easy!)

Southwest Tortellini Pasta Salad

If you're searching for a vibrant and delicious dish that combines the heartiness of pasta with the fresh flavors of the Southwest, look no further than this Southwest Tortellini Pasta Salad. This colorful salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful explosion of flavors and textures.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: American, Southwest
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 12 oz cheese tortellini
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup black beans rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn kernels fresh, canned, or frozen
  • 1 medium red bell pepper diced
  • 1 medium avocado diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • to taste Salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Chef’s knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually around 3-5 minutes until they float to the top.
  2. Step 2: Once the tortellini is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
  3. Step 3: While the tortellini cools, prepare your vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, rinse and drain the black beans, and dice the red bell pepper and avocado. Finely chop the red onion and cilantro.
  4. Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, red bell pepper, avocado, red onion, and cilantro. Gently toss to mix all the ingredients.
  5. Step 5: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, and salt and pepper. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
  6. Step 6: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss to combine, ensuring the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly.
  7. Step 7: For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

Feel free to add in other vegetables like diced cucumbers or shredded carrots for extra crunch. If you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños to the mix.