How to Make: Cowboy Pasta Salad

cheddar cheese

🥗Healthier: reduced-fat cheese

💰Cheaper: Monterey Jack

Reduced-fat cheese cuts calories while still providing flavor.

black beans

🥗Healthier: canned chickpeas

💰Cheaper: dried beans

Chickpeas are lower in calories and provide a different texture.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: vegetable oil

Avocado oil is heart-healthy, while vegetable oil is more budget-friendly.

lime juice

🥗Healthier: fresh lemon juice

💰Cheaper: bottled lemon juice

Bottled lemon juice is a cost-effective substitute.

In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, barbecue sauce, mustard, Worcestershire sauce and hot sauce, and set aside until ready to use.

Cook beef in a large pan or skillet over medium-high heat until browned on all sides. Season with cumin, garlic powder, onion powder and red pepper flakes, and season with salt and pepper.

Once beef is cooked, drain fat, then transfer to a large bowl and add cooked pasta and bacon, corn, black beans, tomatoes, cheddar cheese, green onion and cilantro.

Pour dressing over salad mixture and toss to combine, sprinkle reserved bacon over the top before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens