High Protein Southwest Pasta Salad

Name: High Protein Southwest Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Southwestern
Ingredients: 8 oz whole grain pasta; 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup corn, frozen or canned; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1/2 red onion, diced; 1 avocado, diced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1/4 cup lime juice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste

kate

Update : April 29, 2026

High Protein Southwest Pasta Salad with colorful vegetables and pasta

why make this recipe

High Protein Southwest Pasta Salad is a tasty and nutritious dish that brings together the bold flavors of the Southwest in a wholesome way. It’s packed with protein from black beans and healthy fats from avocado, making it a great option for a filling meal. This salad is perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish at gatherings. Plus, it’s colorful and easy to prepare, which makes it appealing to both kids and adults.

how to make High Protein Southwest Pasta Salad

Ingredients :

8 oz whole grain pasta
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn, frozen or canned
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/2 red onion, diced
1 avocado, diced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup lime juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions :

Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, red onion, avocado, and cilantro.
In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
Pour dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for meal prep.

how to serve High Protein Southwest Pasta Salad

You can enjoy High Protein Southwest Pasta Salad right after making it or let it chill in the refrigerator for an hour to enhance its flavors. It makes a fantastic lunch, a side for dinner, or even a filling snack. Feel free to top it with extra fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for an extra zing.

how to store High Protein Southwest Pasta Salad

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep the avocado from browning, consider adding it just before serving or drizzle some extra lime juice on top before storing.

tips to make High Protein Southwest Pasta Salad

To make this dish even more filling, you can add grilled chicken or turkey.
Try using different types of beans, like kidney beans or pinto beans, for a twist.
If you like it spicy, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing.

variation

You can customize this salad by adding other vegetables like zucchini or olives. Switching the whole grain pasta for gluten-free pasta is also an option if that fits your diet needs.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this pasta salad can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and enjoy it the next day!

2. How can I make it vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly, as it contains no animal products. Enjoy it as is!

3. What can I replace if I don’t have lime juice?
If you don’t have lime juice, you can use lemon juice as a substitute. It will give a similar tangy flavor.