Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad

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Creamy, crunchy, and loaded with bold Tex-Mex flavors — Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad is the ultimate mashup of classic pasta salad and everyone’s favorite chunky salsa. Packed with vibrant veggies, beans, sweet corn, smoky bacon, and a creamy dressing with a zesty kick, this dish is the perfect side for BBQs, potlucks, or easy weeknight dinners. It’s hearty enough to stand alone but also versatile enough to serve alongside grilled meats or tacos.

If you’re looking for something fresh, colorful, and satisfying, this is the pasta salad to bookmark. The mix of textures, pops of sweet corn and juicy tomatoes, and the creamy-spicy dressing make every bite a craveable experience. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

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Why You’ll Love This Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad

It’s easy to make, incredibly customizable, and packed with nutrients. The beans add protein and fiber, the veggies bring crunch and color, and the rotini soaks up all the creamy flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping meals for the week, it’s a satisfying option that holds up well in the fridge.

Plus, the creamy dressing has just the right amount of spice, tang, and richness to tie everything together. You can make it ahead, and it gets even better after chilling!

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What Makes Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad So Irresistible?

It’s all about the balance. The creamy dressing plays off the smoky bacon and sweet corn, while the pasta gives it a comforting bite. The black beans and tomatoes keep it fresh, while red onions and chives give it a little bite. Want to make it vegetarian? Just skip the bacon! Craving more heat? Add jalapeños. You can tweak this recipe to match your taste and what you have on hand.

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Ingredients for the Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad

This vibrant salad combines everyday pantry staples with fresh ingredients to deliver bold flavor in every bite:

• Rotini pasta – Holds onto all the creamy dressing and adds a satisfying base.
• Black beans – Brings heartiness and protein to the dish.
• Corn kernels – Adds sweetness and color, fresh or canned both work well.
• Cherry or grape tomatoes – Bursts of juicy freshness in every bite.
• Red onion – Adds a sharp, crisp contrast to the creamy elements.
• Crispy bacon – Smoky and salty, it amps up the flavor (optional if going meat-free).
• Fresh chives or cilantro – Herbaceous notes that finish the dish beautifully.
• Mayonnaise – The creamy foundation of the dressing.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt – Balances the mayo with a tangy twist.
• Lime juice – Brings brightness and ties in those Tex-Mex vibes.
• Taco seasoning or chili powder blend – Adds that signature kick of spice and depth.
• Salt and pepper – Essential for rounding out the flavors.

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How To Make the Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 2: Prep the Ingredients

While the pasta is cooling, chop the tomatoes, red onion, and herbs. Cook and crumble the bacon if using. Drain and rinse the black beans and corn if canned.

Step 3: Mix the Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream or Greek yogurt, lime juice, taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, beans, corn, tomatoes, onion, bacon, and herbs. Pour the dressing over and toss until evenly coated.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve cold and garnish with extra chives or a squeeze of lime if desired.

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How to Serve and Store Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad

This recipe yields enough to serve 6 to 8 people, making it ideal for picnics, potlucks, and backyard BBQs. Serve it as a chilled side dish or a meatless main on warm days. It also makes a fantastic lunchbox option because it stays delicious even after a day in the fridge.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If needed, refresh with a little extra lime juice or a spoonful of sour cream before serving.

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What to Serve With Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad?

1. Grilled Chicken Thighs

Smoky, juicy, and simple — a perfect protein pairing for this chilled salad.

2. BBQ Ribs

Rich, sticky ribs balance the fresh, zesty salad like a dream.

3. Burgers

Beef, turkey, or veggie burgers all go great with this pasta salad on the side.

4. Fish Tacos

A great way to keep the Tex-Mex theme going and add fresh citrus flavors.

5. Grilled Corn on the Cob

Double down on corn flavor with this sweet and buttery side.

6. Chips and Guacamole

A casual and complementary snack to start or pair with your meal.

7. Stuffed Bell Peppers

Colorful and hearty, they echo the salad’s vibrant ingredients.

8. Watermelon Feta Salad

A refreshing and juicy contrast to the creamy pasta.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad is actually better after chilling. You can make it a day ahead and store it in the fridge, which lets all the flavors develop fully.

2. Can I make it vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely. Just skip the bacon for a vegetarian version. For vegan, use plant-based mayo and sour cream alternatives.

3. Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, any short pasta like penne, bowtie, or shells will work. Just make sure it holds the dressing well.

4. Does it work as a main dish?

It sure does! With beans, veggies, and creamy dressing, it’s hearty enough for a meal, especially on warm days.

5. How do I prevent the salad from drying out?

If storing for more than a day, save a few tablespoons of dressing to stir in before serving, or add a splash of lime juice and mayo to freshen it up.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest salad board so you can revisit it anytime.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go all-in with the bacon or keep it plant-based? Maybe tossed in jalapeños or avocado?

I love seeing your variations. Drop your tips, tweaks, or questions below — we’re all in this kitchen together.

Want more vibrant and satisfying salad recipes like this? Head over to Life With Livia on Pinterest where I share colorful and craveable meal ideas daily.

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Conclusion

Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad takes everything we love about bold Tex-Mex flavor and creamy pasta salad and brings them together in one ultra-satisfying dish. It’s quick, adaptable, and perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping ahead. Whether you serve it at a summer BBQ or pack it up for lunch, this salad brings serious flavor with zero fuss.

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