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If you’re in the mood for a vibrant and hearty salad that bursts with flavor, look no further than this Southwestern Radiatori Fiesta Salad. This dish combines the unique texture of radiatori pasta with the fresh, bold flavors of the Southwest, creating a salad that is as satisfying as it is delicious. Perfect for a light lunch, a picnic, or as a side dish at your next gathering, this recipe is easy to make and sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups (6 ounces) radiatori noodles (or your preferred pasta)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 can (15 ounces) corn kernels, drained
- 1 large avocado, diced
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- ½ bunch cilantro, finely chopped
- 1 medium jalapeño pepper, seeded and diced
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
Dressing:
- ½ cup full-fat mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice (approximately 2-3 limes)
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Radiatori Pasta
Start by cooking the radiatori pasta according to the package instructions. Once the pasta is al dente, drain it thoroughly. Toss it with 2 tablespoons of olive oil to prevent sticking, and set it aside to cool slightly.
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2. Char the Corn
Heat a large cast-iron skillet over high heat. Add the drained corn kernels in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to char and develop a smoky flavor. Flip the corn to char the other side, then remove from heat.
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3. Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, charred corn, diced avocado, sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, diced jalapeño, crumbled feta cheese, and rinsed black beans. Toss the ingredients gently to combine, taking care not to mash the avocado.
4. Prepare the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, freshly squeezed lime juice, ground cumin, paprika, chili powder, and hot sauce. Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine and Serve
Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients in the large mixing bowl. Toss everything together until the salad is well coated with the dressing. Serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before serving.
Nutritional Information:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
- Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
This Southwestern Radiatori Fiesta Salad is a delightful mix of textures and flavors. The creaminess of the avocado pairs beautifully with the salty feta, while the spicy kick from the jalapeño and the zesty dressing ties everything together. Enjoy this colorful salad as a standalone meal or as a side dish that’s sure to steal the show!