Description
Savor the blend of flavors, in this Taco Pasta Salad, a dish that combines the excitement of a fiesta with the comforting familiarity of a classic pasta salad. Imagine cooked rotini noodles each spiral embracing a mixture of taco-seasoned ground beef harmonizing beautifully with the freshness of diced green bell peppers and juicy tomatoes. This culinary creation is generously sprinkled with a melty mix of cheese adding a texture that wonderfully contrasts with the crunchiness of fresh lettuce. Here’s the surprise; A generous drizzle of dressing transforming the ensemble into an unexpectedly tangy and tantalizing delight. Topped off with crispy nacho chips for that crunch and optional cilantro for a burst of fresh herby flavor this Taco Pasta Salad is more than just a dish—it’s a joyful celebration of flavors and textures that will take your taste buds on an exciting adventure, with every mouthful.
Ingredients
16 ounces rotini pasta (or other medium-sized noodle)
1 pound ground beef
3 tablespoons taco seasoning
1.5 cups chopped tomatoes
1 cup diced green bell pepper
2–3 cups Mexican Style Shredded Cheese
4 cups shredded lettuce (pre-shredded available at some stores)
15 ounces French Dressing
3 cups slightly crushed nacho cheese or tortilla chips
Chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions
Cook the rotini noodles, in boiling water according to the instructions on the package and then rinse them with water.
In a skillet brown the ground beef. Remove any grease.
Mix taco seasoning into the beef until well combined.
In a bowl combine the pasta, seasoned beef, chopped tomatoes, diced green bell pepper, shredded cheese and shredded lettuce.
Pour French dressing over the mixture and stir it all together.
If you’re not serving it away you can refrigerate the salad to chill it.
Before serving add chips to maintain their crispy texture.
If desired garnish with chopped cilantro, on top.
Notes
Indulge, in the delight of this Taco Pasta Salad while accommodating a lifestyle! Give this bowl of fiesta a twist by using gluten-free pasta. Look for options, like rice, quinoa or corn pasta that work well in salads. Also be sure to choose a taco seasoning blend that is certified gluten-free to steer off any gluten. Don’t forget those wonderfully crispy nacho chips! Just opt for a gluten-free version and enjoy that satisfying crunch without any concerns.
- Prep Time: 10 MINS
- Cook Time: 30 MINS
