South of the Border Pasta Salad

This pasta salad is the perfect addition to any barbecue or picnic menu. It is bright, zesty, and colorful, and just a little different than your traditional pasta salad. I threw this together based on my love of Mexican flavors and ingredients, and everyone loved it.

The Salad
Mix all ingredients, toss with just a touch of olive oil, and chill in the fridge until ready to dress (1 hour before serving).

• 1 lb rotini, cooked and rinsed under cold water
• Chopped bell peppers - I used 1 each of a green, red, and orange pepper
• 2 tomatoes, seeds removed and chopped
• 1 can black beans, rinsed
• 1 c frozen corn
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• For serving: bowl of shredded Mexican blend cheese
• Optional: cilantro for topping (I completely forgot to put this out!)

The Dressing

Mix all ingredients* and chill until ready to dress. Shake well before pouring onto pasta salad.

• 3/4 c olive oil
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
• 1.5 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp cumin
• Pinch of salt and pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, pressed

* Note, my amounts are approximate. The oil, lime juice, and garlic are exact amounts; others were added and adjusted as I mixed. I recommend you start adding ingredients slowly and taste as you go.

For another unique pasta salad, check out my antipasto pasta salad.