Taco Pasta Salad with Cilantro

Name: Taco Pasta Salad with Cilantro
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz rotini pasta; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen); 1/2 cup red onion, diced; 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup sour cream; 2 tbsp taco seasoning; 1 tbsp lime juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: International Recipes

I love a good salad that’s both satisfying and refreshing, and this Taco Pasta Salad with Cilantro hits all the right notes. Combining the hearty component of pasta with vibrant taco flavors and fresh cilantro makes each bite a delightful surprise. This dish can serve as a main course or a side, perfect for any warm-weather gathering. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up in just 30 minutes, making it an easy go-to for busy weeknights or last-minute potlucks.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-01T17:58:28.711Z

When I first tried a taco twist on a traditional pasta salad, I was amazed at how the flavors came together. The creamy dressing pairs perfectly with the crunch of fresh vegetables and the bold spices typical of taco seasoning. As someone who enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, I find that the combination of hearty pasta, zesty dressing, and fresh cilantro adds layers of taste that always leave my guests asking for the recipe.

This salad has become my go-to for summer picnics and gatherings. The key is in letting the salad marinate for about 10 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Don’t forget the optional toppings like avocado or tortilla strips for added texture and flavor!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty pasta combined with zesty taco flavors
Fresh cilantro adds a burst of brightness
Quick and easy for busy weeknights or potlucks

Perfecting the Pasta

When choosing the pasta for this taco salad, I recommend rotini not just for its shape but also for its ability to hold onto the dressing and ingredients. Be sure to cook the pasta al dente, as this will help it maintain a pleasant texture in the salad. If you overcook the pasta, it can become mushy and lose its appeal, making the overall dish less enjoyable. Aim for the suggested cooking time—10 minutes at most—and always taste a piece to check for doneness before draining.

After cooking, rinse the pasta under cold water immediately. This step is essential to stop the cooking process and cool it down quickly, preserving that desired texture. Additionally, if you're making this salad ahead of time, rinsing helps prevent the pasta from clumping together in the fridge. For added flavor, consider tossing the cooled pasta with a drizzle of olive oil; it can enhance the taste and help the salad stay fresh longer.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substituting rotini with chickpea or quinoa pasta can work wonderfully. These alternatives keep the hearty, satisfying texture while adding extra protein to the salad. Just be mindful to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, as they may differ from standard wheat pasta.

Elevating Flavor with Ingredients

Each ingredient in this salad plays a crucial role in balancing flavors and textures. The black beans are not only a great source of protein, but they also add a creamy richness to the dish. If you're in a pinch, you could swap black beans with pinto beans or even kidney beans, but be sure they are well-rinsed to remove excess sodium and preservatives, enhancing the overall flavor of the salad.

Fresh cilantro is a key component here, bringing a vibrant freshness that brightens up the dish. If cilantro isn't your favorite, parsley can serve as a milder substitute, but keep in mind that the specific flavor profile will change slightly. For those who enjoy a kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder to enhance the spiciness without overshadowing the tacos’ essence.

The combination of mayonnaise and sour cream in the dressing creates a creamy base, while the lime juice adds a zesty kick. If you're looking for a dairy-free version, opt for a coconut yogurt or a cashew cream in place of sour cream, and use a vegan mayonnaise substitute. This way, you can still enjoy the rich texture without compromising on your dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a delicious Taco Pasta Salad:

Ingredients

8 oz rotini pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
1/2 cup red onion, diced
1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
2 tbsp taco seasoning
1 tbsp lime juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure everything is fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Taco Pasta Salad:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

Prepare the Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, taco seasoning, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, red onion, bell pepper, cilantro, and shredded cheese. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Chill and Serve

Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes for the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Enjoy your fresh and zesty Taco Pasta Salad!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some diced jalapeños or serving with fresh avocado slices. You can also swap out the black beans for pinto beans or add cooked ground beef for a meaty twist.

Serving Suggestions

This Taco Pasta Salad can stand alone as a main dish or be served as a side at gatherings. To elevate your presentation, consider garnishing the top with extra cheese, a sprinkle of chili powder, or more chopped cilantro. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or shrimp, adding protein and making it a more substantial meal, especially for outdoor barbecues or family reunions.

If you want to take your salad to the next level, serve it in taco shells or mini tortilla bowls. This not only adds to the visual appeal but also creates an exciting way for guests to enjoy the salad. Plus, the crunchy texture of the taco shell will contrast beautifully with the creamy, zesty pasta.

For a fun twist, think about incorporating some diced avocado or sliced olives into the mix before serving. Both ingredients not only enhance the flavors but also contribute additional nutrients, making your salad even more wholesome. Just be careful with how much avocado you add, as it can make the salad richer.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

One of the great benefits of this Taco Pasta Salad is its ability to be made ahead of time. It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just be aware that the pasta may absorb some of the dressing as it sits, so you might want to make a little extra dressing to freshen it up before serving. Simply whisk it together again and drizzle it over the salad for that refreshed flavor.

If you're preparing this salad for an event, consider assembling the ingredients separately and mixing them right before serving. This approach helps maintain the freshness of the veggies and the texture of the pasta, ensuring everything tastes bright and delightful. Simply store the dressing in a separate container to keep its consistency, and mix it in when you're ready to serve each portion.

For any leftovers, store them in a tightly sealed container. If you notice your salad has become a bit soggy, a quick toss with additional fresh ingredients like diced tomatoes or bell peppers can help revitalize it. Just remember that while the salad lasts three days, for optimal taste and quality, aim to enjoy it within the first day or two if possible.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be prepared a few hours or even a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until serving.

→ Is there a gluten-free option for the pasta?

Absolutely! You can use gluten-free pasta for this recipe.

→ How do I store the leftovers?

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add protein to this salad?

Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even diced turkey would make a great addition to the salad.