Description
To understand this dish, we first have to look at its namesake. Cowboy caviar, sometimes called Texas caviar, is a bean-based salad or dip that features a variety of colorful vegetables tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. The Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad takes those same core components—black beans, sweet corn, crisp bell peppers, and creamy avocado—and introduces cooked pasta into the equation.
Ingredients
Scale
For the salad:
- 2 cups cooked pasta (rotini or bowtie, cooled)
- 1 cup canned black beans (rinsed & drained)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- ½ cup red bell pepper (diced)
- ¼ cup red onion (finely chopped)
- 1 avocado (diced)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
For the dressing:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp honey
- ½ tsp cumin
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta
Boil pasta according to package instructions, then drain and let it cool completely. - Prepare the veggies
Chop tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, avocado, and cilantro. - Mix the salad
In a large bowl, combine pasta, black beans, corn, and all chopped vegetables. - Make the dressing
Whisk together olive oil, lime juice, vinegar, honey, cumin, salt, and pepper. - Combine everything
Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently until well coated. - Chill & serve
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Notes
This Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish bursting with flavor—perfect for warm days, gatherings, or a quick, wholesome meal. It’s easy to customize and always a crowd-pleaser!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 260 kcal
Keywords: Texas caviar pasta salad, southwestern pasta salad, black bean and corn pasta salad, zesty summer pasta salad