Go Back
+ servings
Cold Taco Pasta Salad with Catalina dressing

Refreshing Cold Taco Pasta Salad with Catalina Dressing Delight

Enjoy a vibrant Cold Taco Pasta Salad with Catalina dressing, perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 16 oz rotini pasta Feel free to substitute with any pasta shape you love.
  • 1 lb lean ground beef Can swap with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based alternative.
  • 1 oz packet taco seasoning Try homemade seasoning for a fresh twist!
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Regular diced tomatoes work if you prefer.
  • ½ green bell pepper, diced Red or yellow bell peppers can add a touch of sweetness.
  • ½ red bell pepper, diced If desired, use more green bell pepper instead.
  • 4 green onions, chopped (green parts only) Adjust based on your taste preference.
  • 1 can (15 oz) sweet corn, drained Frozen corn can be used if preferred.
  • 1 can (15 oz) light red kidney beans, drained and rinsed Feel free to use any beans you like.
For the Dressing
  • cups Catalina dressing Try a similar sweet dressing or make a homemade vinaigrette.
For the Garnish
  • tortilla strips for garnish Crushed tortilla chips work too, or skip for a lighter salad.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Colander
  • Plastic wrap

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cold Taco Pasta Salad
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 16 oz of rotini pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb ground beef, browning for 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease, add 1 oz taco seasoning and a few tablespoons of water. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cooked ground beef, 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes, ½ diced green bell pepper, ½ diced red bell pepper, 4 chopped green onions, 1 can drained sweet corn, and 1 can drained kidney beans. Fold together.
  4. Pour 1½ cups Catalina dressing over the mixture and gently toss until evenly coated.
  5. Cover with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight to enhance the flavors.
  6. Before serving, stir the salad and top with crispy tortilla strips.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 22gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge enhances flavors; it's crucial for delicious results.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!