If you're looking for a refreshing twist on a classic dish, this Southwestern Avocado Macaroni Salad is the recipe for you. It's a vibrant, flavor-packed salad that brings the taste of the Southwest to your table, perfect for summer gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner.
Elbow macaroni is the backbone of our salad, offering that familiar chewy texture. Avocados lend a creamy richness and healthy fats, while cherry tomatoes contribute a pop of juicy sweetness. Black beans bring protein and a creamy bite, which pairs well with the crunch of red bell pepper and the sharpness of red onion. The cilantro adds a fresh, herbal note, and jalapeño gives a subtle kick of heat. The dressing, made of lime juice, olive oil, cumin, and smoked paprika, ties everything together with a zesty and smoky finish.
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken or steak for a complete meal. It's also delightful alongside a simple vegetable soup or as part of a buffet spread with other salads and fresh bread.
First, cook your elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. I find it’s best to cook it al dente, so it holds up well after being mixed with the dressing. Once it's done, drain it and set it aside to cool. You can speed up the process by spreading it out on a baking sheet.
While the pasta cools, grab a large bowl and start building your salad base. Add the diced avocados, halved cherry tomatoes, drained and rinsed black beans, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, chopped cilantro, and minced jalapeño. Give it a gentle toss to combine.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, a generous pinch of salt, and pepper to taste. This dressing is the heart of your salad, so make sure it’s well mixed.
Once your macaroni has cooled, add it to the bowl with the veggies. Pour the dressing over everything, and toss gently to ensure every ingredient is coated. Be careful with the avocados; you want them to stay in nice chunks.
Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a harmonious dish.
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