Go Back
–+ servings
Cowboy Pasta Salad

Cowboy Pasta Salad: A Refreshing Twist for Any Gathering

Cowboy Pasta Salad is a hearty, no-cook delight perfect for potlucks or family dinners. It combines tender pasta, crunchy veggies, and smoky BBQ sauce for a celebration of flavors.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 12 ounces rotini or penne pasta
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced can substitute with shrimp or canned beans
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn, frozen or canned fresh corn can be used
  • 1 cup bell peppers, diced mix of colors recommended
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped can substitute with shallots
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded omit for vegan option
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup ranch dressing or zesty vinaigrette
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder adjust for spice preference
  • salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • cutting board
  • Knife

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  2. Wash and chop the vegetables, then set aside in a large mixing bowl.
  3. In the bowl with the vegetables, add the cooled pasta, cooked chicken, black beans, and corn. Mix well.
  4. Sprinkle cheese over the mixture. In a separate bowl, whisk together ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, and chili powder; pour over salad and mix to combine.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  7. Stir again before serving and garnish with extra cheese or herbs if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 8gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Chill the salad for improved flavor. Customize proteins as desired. Best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!