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Cowboy Pasta Salad

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 10 mins
Rest Time 10 mins
Total Time 35 mins
Cooking Method: , ,
Courses: , ,
Difficulty: Beginner
Cooking Temp: 180  C
Servings: 6
Estimated Cost: $  13
Calories: 480
Best Season: Summer, Spring
Description

Cowboy Pasta Salad is a fun, filling twist on traditional pasta salad. It features seasoned ground beef, fresh veggies, tender pasta, and a punchy lime dressing that brings it all together. Great served warm or cold — and even better the next day!

Ingredients
  • 8 oz short pasta (like rotini or penne)
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or thawed frozen)
  • 1/2 cup black beans, drained & rinsed
  • 1/4 cup red onion, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
    • For the Lime Dressing:
  • 3 tablespoons lime juice (fresh)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
    Step 1: Cook the Pasta
  1. 1
    Boil a big pot of water. Add pasta and cook until soft (about 8–10 minutes).
  2. 2
    Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water. Let it cool.
    3. Step 2: Brown the Beef
  3. 3
    In a pan, heat olive oil. Add ground beef and cook on medium heat.
  4. 4
    Add chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until beef is fully cooked (no pink).
  5. 5
    Turn off the heat and let the beef cool a bit.
    6. Step 3: Make the Dressing
  6. 6
    In a small bowl, mix lime juice, olive oil, honey, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  7. 7
    Stir it up until smooth.
    8. Step 4: Combine Everything
  8. 8
    In a big bowl, add pasta, cooked beef, tomatoes, corn, black beans, onion, and cilantro.
  9. 9
    Pour the dressing on top.
  10. 10
    Gently mix everything together. Taste and add more salt if needed.
    11. Step 5: Chill and Serve
  11. 11
    Put the salad in the fridge for 10 minutes so it gets nice and cool.
  12. 12
    Serve cold or at room temperature. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Serving Size ~1.5 cups

Amount Per Serving
Calories 480kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 24g37%
Saturated Fat 8g40%
Cholesterol 65mg22%
Sodium 460mg20%
Potassium 470mg14%
Total Carbohydrate 38g13%
Dietary Fiber 3g12%
Sugars 4g
Protein 28g57%
Vitamin A 750 IU
Vitamin C 10 mg
Calcium 90 mg
Iron 3.2 mg
Vitamin D 8 IU
Vitamin E 1.4 IU
Folate 60 mcg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Tips & Swaps

  • Add avocado just before serving for a creamy twist.
  • Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter version.
  • Make it spicy with diced jalapeños or hot sauce.
Keywords: cowboy pasta salad recipe, beef pasta salad for summer, lime dressing pasta salad, picnic potluck salad with meat

Why You’ll Love It 🤠

  • Super easy to make
  • Perfect for summer picnics or lunchboxes
  • Packed with flavor and protein
  • Kids and adults love it!
Read it online: https://foodievibe.com/recipes/cowboy-pasta-salad/
Shopie Lane
Food and Lifestyle Blogger

Hi, I’m Sophie Lane — a food lover, curious traveler, and storyteller at heart. I’m passionate about inspiring others to live healthier, happier lives through simple, nourishing meals and mindful exploration of the world.