Taco Pasta Salad
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.
16 Servings
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.