Ingredients
Creating this delightful dish requires a handful of simple, fresh ingredients that come together beautifully:
– **Macaroni**: The backbone of our salad, offering a tender base that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
– **Red Bell Peppers**: These add a sweet crunch and vibrant color, reminiscent of the bright hues of Mexican markets.
– **Corn**: Fresh or canned, corn brings a touch of sweetness and a delightful burst of texture.
– **Black Beans**: For heartiness and a hint of earthiness, black beans are a must.
– **Red Onion**: Adds a sharp, pungent note that balances the sweetness of other ingredients.
– **Cilantro**: Fresh and aromatic, cilantro adds a touch of herbal brightness.
– **Lime Juice**: A squeeze of lime brings a zesty freshness that ties all the flavors together.
– **Mayonnaise and Sour Cream**: These create the creamy dressing that envelops every bite in richness.
– **Chili Powder and Cumin**: A sprinkle of these spices evokes the warmth and depth of Mexican cuisine.
These ingredients are more than just components of a recipe; they are fragments of a story, each one contributing to the narrative of flavors that Mama Lou taught me to cherish.
Instructions
Bringing this salad to life is a joy, and the process is as rewarding as the result:
1. **Cook the Macaroni**: Begin by boiling the macaroni until it’s al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process, then set aside.
2. **Prepare the Vegetables**: Dice the red bell peppers and onions, and drain the black beans if using canned. Mama Lou always emphasized the importance of uniform pieces, ensuring every bite was a perfect blend.
3. **Mix the Dressing**: In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, and cumin. Stir until smooth and well mixed.
4. **Combine Ingredients**: Add the cooked macaroni, vegetables, and cilantro to the dressing. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
5. **Chill**: Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a harmonious dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International