Cold Southwestern Bow Tie Pasta

Ingredients and Weight:

• 1 pound bow tie pasta
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion
• 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh jalapeño pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chiles
• 1 cup southwestern salad dressing
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Preparation Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

10 minutes

Difficulty Level:

2 (Easy)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, red onion, bell peppers, cilantro, black beans, corn, jalapeño pepper (if using), tomatoes, and salad dressing.
3. Mix well to combine.
4. Top with cheddar cheese if desired.

Nutritional Information:

Per serving (1 cup):

• Calories: 300
• Fat: 8g
• Protein: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 45g

Dish Characteristics:

• Refreshing and flavorful
• Colorful and vibrant
• Perfect for summer gatherings
• Can be customized to taste

User Comments:

• "This pasta salad is so easy to make and it's always a hit at parties!"
• "I love the combination of flavors in this dish. It's the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy."
• "I'm not a vegetarian, but this pasta salad is so good that I don't even miss the meat."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• If you don't like spicy food, omit the jalapeño pepper.
• You can use any type of pasta you like in this recipe.
• Add your favorite vegetables to this salad, such as zucchini, carrots, or celery.
• This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.