This Mexican Macaroni Salad is a fun twist on the classic! It’s packed with colorful veggies, creamy dressing, and a hint of spice, making it perfect for picnics or barbecues.
Every bite is a burst of flavor, and I love how easy it is to whip up. You can even sneak in some extra veggies if you want—but shhh, I won’t tell anyone! 🌶️😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This pasta is classic for salads, but if you’re looking for a twist, try using rotini or farfalle. They hold dressings well and add a fun look.
Black Beans: Canned beans are super convenient, but cooked chickpeas work as a great substitute if you want a different flavor or are out of black beans.
Corn: Sweet corn adds crunch. You can also use frozen corn, just thaw it first. If fresh corn is in season, using it would really boost the freshness of this salad.
Fresh Cilantro: Cilantro is key for that fresh flavor. If you’re not a fan, parsley works as a mild substitute, though it won’t give that same kick.
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: For a lighter version, Greek yogurt can replace both. It adds creaminess and a hint of tang. Some people also like using avocado for a creamy twist!
How Do I Ensure the Perfect Cook on Elbow Macaroni?
Cooking elbow macaroni to the right texture is important for your salad. You want it to be firm (al dente) so it holds up in the mix. Here’s how to do it right:
- Boil water in a large pot. Add a pinch of salt for flavor.
- Pour in the macaroni and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Check the package for the cooking time, usually about 7-9 minutes. Taste it a minute or two early.
- Once cooked, drain immediately and rinse under cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools it for your salad.
Getting this step right will leave you with perfectly cooked macaroni that helps make the salad a hit! Enjoy!
How to Make Mexican Macaroni Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Dressing Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mexican macaroni salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, you’re looking at around 45 minutes total before it’s ready to serve. Perfect for gatherings or a light meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Macaroni:
Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Make sure to cook it until it’s al dente, which means it should still have a little bite to it. Once cooked, drain the macaroni and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set it aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Mix the Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, red onion, and chopped cilantro. Give it a gentle toss to mix everything together nicely. This colorful mix will add great flavor and texture to your salad.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth. This creamy dressing will bring all the flavors together wonderfully!
4. Combine Everything:
Add the cooled macaroni to the vegetable mixture. Pour the dressing over everything. Now, it’s time to toss well so that all the ingredients are evenly coated in that tasty dressing.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Give your salad a taste. You can adjust the seasoning by adding extra salt, pepper, or lime juice, depending on your preference. Look for that perfect balance of flavors!
6. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows all the wonderful flavors to meld together, making your salad even more delicious!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, your refreshing Mexican macaroni salad is ready to serve. Enjoy it as a side dish at your next barbecue or as a light meal all on its own. Dig in and enjoy the delightful flavors!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute elbow macaroni with any small pasta shape, like shells, rotini, or fusilli. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary depending on the pasta you choose.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this salad vegan! Substitute mayonnaise with a vegan mayo and replace the sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt or cashew cream. The flavor will still be delicious!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, as the ingredients may settle a bit. If it seems dry, add a splash of lime juice or a bit more mayo to freshen it up.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to customize the salad by adding ingredients like avocado, jalapeños for heat, or even diced carrots or cucumber for extra crunch. Just keep the ratios in mind to maintain a balanced flavor!
