Tantalizing Quick Taco Pasta Salad for Effortless Meals
This Quick Taco Pasta Salad combines vibrant flavors of tacos with the convenience of a salad, perfect for any gathering or weeknight dinner.
Equipment
- - Large pot
- - Skillet
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 1 pound Ground Beef Aim for 85/15 for balance
- 1 packet Taco Seasoning Choose a mild variety
- 12 oz Rotini Pasta Spiral shape captures dressing well
- 1 cup Green Pepper Substitute with any color bell pepper
- 1 medium Yellow Onion Feel free to use red onion
- 1 cup Grape Tomatoes Halved for ease of mixing
- 1 cup Cheddar Jack Cheese Substitute with your favorite cheese
- 2 cups Iceberg Lettuce Romaine or mixed greens blend are options
- 1/2 cup Black Olives Replace with green olives or leave out
For the Dressing
- 1 cup French Dressing Wish-Bone is recommended
For the Crunch
- 1 cup Doritos Add just before serving for crispiness
Instructions
Preparation
- Prep Vegetables: Dice the green pepper, chop the onion, halve the grape tomatoes, and shred the iceberg lettuce.
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini until just al dente.
- Brown Beef: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the ground beef until browned.
- Season Beef: Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and add a splash of water, then simmer until coated.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, seasoned beef, vegetables, cheese, and olives.
- Add Dressing: Pour in the French dressing and toss until evenly coated.
- Prepare for Serving: Just before serving, crush up the Doritos and fold them in gently.
Notes
Optional: Garnish with extra cheese or fresh cilantro for enhanced flavor. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.