Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad is a must-try for anyone who loves a fresh and flavorful dish. It’s packed with nutrients from a variety of colorful vegetables, plant-based protein from beans, and a creamy bite of feta cheese. The combination of chickpea pasta and a tangy dressing makes every bite burst with flavor. Plus, it’s super customizable to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you serve it as a main course or a side dish, this salad will quickly become a crowd favorite.

Ingredients

• 2 8 oz boxes of pasta shells (chickpea pasta recommended)

• 1 can drained and rinsed black beans

• 1 can drained and rinsed black-eyed peas

• 1 can drained sweet corn

• 1 green bell pepper

• 2 bell peppers (orange, red, or yellow)

• 1/2 red onion

• 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes

• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

• 2-3 limes, juiced

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar

• 1 tbsp maple syrup

• 6 oz feta cheese (vegan or regular)

• Salt to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Boil water and cook pasta according to the instructions on the box, but cook it 1-2 minutes less than recommended to keep the pasta firm and avoid it becoming mushy. Allow the pasta to cool once done.

2. Dice the onion and bell peppers into similar sizes for an even bite.

3. Halve the cherry or grape tomatoes.

4. Finely chop the cilantro.

5. Drain and rinse the black beans, black-eyed peas, and corn.

6. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lime juice, and maple syrup to create the dressing.

7. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced vegetables, beans, corn, tomatoes, and cilantro. Toss everything together.

8. Add the dressing and feta cheese, then gently toss again to coat everything evenly.

9. Season with salt to taste, and your Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad is ready to serve!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8

• Prep Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegan Option: Use vegan feta or omit the cheese for a dairy-free version.

• Pasta: While chickpea pasta is recommended for its protein content, you can use any type of pasta you prefer.

• Additional Veggies: Add more vegetables like avocado, cucumber, or zucchini for extra crunch and freshness.

• Spicy Kick: For a spicy twist, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.

Storage/Reheating

This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors may even improve after sitting overnight! It’s best served chilled, and while it doesn’t require reheating, if you prefer it warm, you can toss it in a pan for a few minutes. However, fresh is always best!

FAQs

1. Can I make Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the salad in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will marinate and develop even more!

2. Can I use regular pasta instead of chickpea pasta?

Absolutely! While chickpea pasta adds plant-based protein, you can substitute with any pasta you like, such as whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be if you use gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to choose gluten-free options for pasta and other ingredients like the maple syrup and feta.

4. How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a spicy dressing to bring some heat to the dish.

5. Can I substitute the black-eyed peas with another bean?

Yes, you can use any beans you like, such as kidney beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas, for a different flavor.

6. What can I use instead of feta cheese?

If you want a vegan version, try using dairy-free feta or omit the cheese entirely. A scoop of hummus can also work as a creamy alternative.

7. How can I make this pasta salad more filling?

Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or extra beans to increase the protein content and make it a more substantial meal.

8. Can I add fruits to this recipe?

Yes! Mango, pineapple, or even apple chunks would add a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of this pasta salad.

9. How long does it take to prepare this recipe?

The prep time for this Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad is about 30 minutes, making it a quick and easy option for lunch or dinner.

10. How should I store leftover Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The salad tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Conclusion

Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad is a refreshing and nutritious dish that combines the goodness of vegetables, beans, and pasta. Perfect for meal prep, picnics, or as a side dish at barbecues, this salad will surely satisfy your taste buds. Its versatility makes it easy to customize, while the dressing adds a delightful zing that ties everything together. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or enjoying it for lunch, this salad is a hit!

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