Name: Mexican Macaroni Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb elbow macaroni gluten-free if needed; 2 ears (1 cup) fresh corn (canned or frozen and thawed work); 1 cup black beans drained and rinsed; 1 cup cherry tomatoes quartered; 1 green bell pepper diced; 1/2 medium red onion finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro finely chopped; 1 jalapeño seeded and finely diced; 3/4 cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise; 1/3 cup sour cream; 1 lime juiced (3 Tablespoons), plus more to taste; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 clove garlic; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

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Looking for a delicious and easy dish for your next gathering? Mexican Macaroni Salad is the perfect choice! Packed with vibrant flavors and simple to make, this salad is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Bursting with fresh and zesty flavors.
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for meal prepping.

Versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredient Notes:

Elbow macaroni (gluten-free if needed): provides a hearty base for the salad.

Fresh corn: adds a sweet crunch, but canned or frozen corn can be used.

Black beans: add protein and fiber to the dish.

Cherry tomatoes, green bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño: create a colorful and flavorful mix.
Dressing ingredients: Greek yogurt or mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic, and kosher salt.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool.

In a large bowl, combine the corn, black beans, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic, and salt to make the dressing.

Pour the dressing over the macaroni and vegetables. Mix until well combined.

Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

Helpful Tips:

Add avocado for extra creaminess.

Adjust the spice level by adding more or less jalapeño.

Swap out ingredients based on your preferences, such as using different beans or vegetables.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Allow the flavors to meld together by letting the salad sit in the fridge for a few hours before serving.

Freshly squeezed lime juice adds a bright and tangy flavor to the dressing.

Use a mix of colorful cherry tomatoes for a visually appealing dish.

Serving Suggestions:

Mexican Macaroni Salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish tacos, or as a side dish for a BBQ. Serve with a refreshing agua fresca or margarita for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To refresh the salad, drizzle with a little extra lime juice before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, this salad tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld together.
Can I make this recipe vegan? Yes, simply swap the Greek yogurt and sour cream for dairy-free alternatives.

How can I make this salad more filling? Add grilled shrimp or shredded rotisserie chicken for extra protein.

Conclusion:

Next time you’re in need of a tasty and versatile dish, give Mexican Macaroni Salad a try. It’s sure to impress your guests and become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy!