Ingredients

1 lb fusilli ( uncooked )
1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
4 large tomatoes , seeded and diced
3 cups corn kernels ( fresh or frozen , thawed )
3 large carrots , thinly sliced on diagonal , slices cut lengthwise into thin strips
1/2 large red onion , chopped
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
2 jalapeno peppers , seeded and minced
1 1/4 teaspoons chili powder
1 1/4 teaspoons ground cumin
1/2 cup fresh cilantro , chopped
salt & pepper
Mexican pasta salad makes for a fun and flavorful dish with fresh and nutritious veggies and a kick of spice. This recipe is perefct for busy people who want a hearty meal, but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen. Your meal can be prepared in a flash, the pasta can be cooked al dente, then add a zingy and creamy dressing bursting with taste with a little help from chili, cumin and jalapeno peppers. This salad can make a refreshing and light dinner or a great side dish to any Summertime potluck or BBQ party.

Instructions

1.Cook pasta according to package instructions, drain and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
2.Add olive oil to the pasta and toss well to coat.
3.Add tomatoes, corn, carrots and red onion to the pasta and mix.
4.In a separate bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lime juice, jalapeno peppers, chili powder, and ground cumin to make the dressing.
5.Add the dressing to the bowl with the pasta and veggie mixture. Stir well to combine.
6.Add fresh cilantro and salt and pepper to taste, then mix again to combine.

PROS

This Mexican pasta salad is perfect for a quick and tasty lunch or dinner, or can be used as an easy side dish at summer BBQs and potlucks.

It is full of fresh veggies and packed with flavor.

The dressing has a healthy kick thanks to Jalapeno Peppers, chili and cumin powder, making it delicious and healthy at the same time.

CONS

Not a great meal to have if you’re not a fan of a spicy kick.

Mayonnaise-based dressing is high in fat, so moderation is key.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This salad is a great way to get an array of different vegetables in one meal.
Tomatoes contain lycopene, a potent antioxidant, and the red onion is a good source of quercetin, which helps improve respiratory health.
Chili powder and cumin can be used to help improve digestion, boost metabolism and enhance weight loss.

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