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Cowboy Pasta Salad

Zesty Cowboy Pasta Salad: A Hearty Twist for Gatherings

This Cowboy Pasta Salad is a hearty and vibrant dish, perfect for gatherings with an explosion of flavors.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 57 minutes
Servings: 6 portions
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Farfalle Pasta Can substitute with rotini or penne
For the Protein
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Can substitute with ground turkey or plant-based alternative
For the Freshness
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Diced bell peppers can be a substitute
  • 1/2 cup Red Onion Green onions can be a milder substitute
For the Creaminess
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Can use Monterey Jack or dairy-free cheese
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream Can use Greek yogurt for a healthier option
For the Flavor
  • 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar Can substitute with white wine vinegar or lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp Hot Sauce Adjust to taste
  • 2 tbsp Taco Seasoning Use homemade or store-bought
For the Garnish
  • 1/4 cup Cilantro Can substitute with parsley or omit
  • 1/4 cup Scallions

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy Cowboy Pasta Salad
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, add ground beef and cook for 5-6 minutes until browned. Stir in taco seasoning, remove from heat and let cool.
  3. In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
  4. In a large bowl, combine cooled ground beef, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and additional ingredients. Pour dressing over and stir gently.
  5. Fold in cheddar cheese, cilantro, and scallions. Adjust creaminess as desired.
  6. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1portionCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 22gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This salad can be made in advance and stored for up to 3 days in the refrigerator for best flavor.

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