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Pasta salads are renowned for their versatility, making them a staple dish for a variety of occasions. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a family dinner, or looking for a quick meal prep option, a good pasta salad can easily elevate your menu. Among the many delightful variations, the Smoky Chipotle Bliss Pasta Salad stands out as a bold and flavorful choice. This dish marries the rich smokiness of chipotle peppers with the freshness of vegetables, creating a salad that is not only satisfying but also packed with layers of flavor.

Creamy Chipotle Pasta Salad

Elevate your dining experience with the Smoky Chipotle Bliss Pasta Salad, a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. This pasta salad combines the smokiness of chipotle peppers with fresh vegetables like bell peppers and cherry tomatoes, creating a deliciously satisfying meal. Ideal for barbecues, meal prepping, or family dinners, this versatile salad is easy to make ahead and is packed with nutrition. Discover how to prepare the ultimate pasta salad that will impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne or fusilli is recommended)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup sweet corn (canned or frozen, thawed)

1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained

1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced

1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

1 ripe avocado, diced

1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

3/4 cup sour cream

1/4 cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced

1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Optional: Lime wedges for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold running water to cool it down quickly. Set aside to let excess water drain.

    Prepare the Dressing: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, minced chipotle peppers, lime juice, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and well combined, resembling a creamy dressing.

      Assemble the Salad: In a spacious mixing bowl, place the cooled pasta. Add in the halved cherry tomatoes, sweet corn, rinsed black beans, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, and diced avocado. Gently toss the ingredients together to ensure an even distribution without mashing the avocado.

        Add the Dressing: Carefully pour the creamy chipotle dressing over the pasta salad. Use a spatula or large spoon to toss everything together until every item is well-coated in the dressing.

          Finish It Off: Fold in the chopped cilantro into the salad for an added burst of flavor and freshness. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if preferred.

            Chill and Serve: Cover the salad with cling film or place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. When ready to serve, dish out the salad chilled and garnish with lime wedges, if desired, to enhance the presentation.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 6 servings

                - Presentation Tips: For an appealing look, serve the pasta salad in a large glass bowl to showcase its colorful ingredients. Scatter some extra cilantro on top for added freshness before placing lime wedges around the bowl as a garnish.