Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad

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Bright, bold, and bursting with flavor, Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad is your next potluck showstopper. This Tex-Mex inspired salad takes the vibrant medley of classic cowboy caviar—think black beans, corn, peppers, and a zesty dressing—and tosses it all together with tender rotini pasta for a hearty, satisfying twist.

Whether you’re whipping it up for a backyard BBQ, weekday meal prep, or a colorful lunch, this dish is incredibly easy to make, endlessly customizable, and sure to impress with every bite. It’s a flavor explosion of sweet corn, smoky beans, spicy jalapeños, and creamy dressing, making it the kind of salad people come back for seconds… and thirds.

What Makes Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad So Irresistible?

This salad is all about texture and taste. The pasta adds a chewy contrast to the crunchy bell peppers and juicy tomatoes. The beans and corn lend protein and sweetness, while the pepperoni and jalapeño give it a bold kick. It’s a one-bowl wonder that balances fresh and filling beautifully.

Ingredients for the Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad

• Rotini Pasta: The spirals are perfect for catching all the flavorful dressing and mix-ins.
• Black Beans & White Beans: Add plant-based protein and a creamy texture.
• Corn Kernels: Sweet and slightly crunchy, either canned or fresh.
• Red, Yellow & Orange Bell Peppers: Bring the crunch and vivid color.
• Grape Tomatoes: Juicy and fresh, they help brighten the salad.
• Pepperoni Slices: Optional, but they add a savory, salty bite.
• Red Onion: For a sharp, tangy punch.
• Jalapeños: Dice them fine for controlled heat.
• Fresh Cilantro: Brightens the salad with herbal freshness.
• Zesty Dressing: Usually a mix of olive oil, vinegar, lime juice, garlic, and spices.

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How To Make the Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prep the Veggies and Mix-Ins

While the pasta is cooking, chop the bell peppers, red onion, grape tomatoes, jalapeño, and cilantro. Rinse and drain the beans and corn.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a jar or small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Shake or whisk until emulsified.

Step 4: Toss It All Together

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, beans, corn, chopped veggies, and pepperoni. Pour the dressing over the top and mix until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. Give it a quick toss just before plating.

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Serving and Storing Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad

Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad is best served chilled and fresh. It’s a crowd-pleaser at room temperature too, making it perfect for picnics and potlucks. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, so it’s even better the next day.

What to Serve With Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad?

Grilled BBQ Chicken

A smoky grilled main is the perfect complement.

Cheesy Jalapeño Cornbread

Add some Southern charm and a cheesy bite.

Baked Potato Wedges

Crunchy on the outside, soft inside — great for scooping salad.

Creamy Avocado Dip

Bring out the Tex-Mex flavors with a smooth dip on the side.

Spicy Shrimp Skewers

The heat pairs beautifully with the salad’s cool crunch.

Chicken Street Tacos

Add another layer of flavor to your table with these tacos.

Buttery Corn on the Cob

Classic and simple, always a favorite.

Watermelon Feta Salad

Refreshing and sweet to balance the savory bite.

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Want More Pasta Salad Ideas with a Tex-Mex Twist?

If you love this Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad, check out these other flavor-packed dishes:

• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for a comforting, hearty bite.
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce if you’re into big flavors.
• Creamy Beef and Shells for a simple, creamy dinner idea.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta for busy weeknight ease.
• One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta when you need big flavor and minimal cleanup.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the jalapeños or leave them out? Add cheese? I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated flavor-packed salads and pasta dishes on ChefAlchemy Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to recipe for every season!

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