Ingredients
Creating this delightful dish begins with gathering the right ingredients, each one playing a crucial role in building layers of flavor:
– Pasta: I often choose rotini or fusilli for their ability to hold the dressing and flavors beautifully.
– Ground beef or turkey: A well-seasoned taco meat is essential, echoing the flavors of Mama Lou’s tacos.
– Taco seasoning: You can use store-bought or make your own blend with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
– Black beans: These add a hearty texture and a touch of creaminess.
– Corn: Fresh off the cob or canned, corn brings a sweetness that balances the spices.
– Cherry tomatoes: Their juicy burst adds freshness to the dish.
– Bell peppers: Red, yellow, or green, they offer a crunchy contrast.
– Red onion: Finely chopped for a bit of zing.
– Cheddar cheese: Shredded and sprinkled throughout for a creamy finish.
– Cilantro: Freshly chopped to add a hint of brightness.
– Lime: Squeezed over the salad to enhance the flavors.
– Tortilla chips: Crushed on top for a delightful crunch.
– Sour cream or Greek yogurt: Mixed in for creaminess and tang.
Each ingredient tells a story, much like the ones Mama Lou would share with us at the dinner table, rich in tradition and love.
Instructions
Crafting this salad is a joyful process, one that I hope brings you as much happiness as it does me:
1. Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions. Once al dente, drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. In a skillet, brown the ground meat over medium heat. Once cooked, add the taco seasoning and a splash of water, allowing the flavors to meld together. Set aside to cool slightly.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, seasoned meat, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, red onion, and half of the cheese.
4. In a small bowl, mix the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) with lime juice, then pour over the pasta mixture, tossing everything until well coated.
5. Sprinkle chopped cilantro and the remaining cheese over the salad.
6. Just before serving, add crushed tortilla chips on top for that satisfying crunch.
As you prepare this dish, I hope you feel the love and connection that I do, channeling Mama Lou’s spirit in every step.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International