Description

Ever craved a dish that’s light, zesty, and packed with vibrant flavors, perfect for a summer picnic or a quick weeknight side? The Black Bean and Corn Pasta Salad with Lime Greek Yogurt Dressing is your answer! This refreshing salad combines tender rotini pasta, hearty black beans, sweet corn, and fresh greens, all tossed in a creamy, tangy lime yogurt dressing.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

Rotini pasta (16 oz): A short, spiral pasta that holds the dressing well. Any short pasta (like penne or fusilli) works.
Black beans (1 can, 15 oz, drained and rinsed): Adds protein, fiber, and a hearty texture.
Corn (1 can, 11 oz, drained): Brings sweetness and a slight crunch.
Fresh spinach (1 cup, roughly chopped): Adds a nutritious, green element.
Fresh cilantro (¼ cup, finely chopped): Provides a fresh, herbaceous flavor.

For the Lime Greek Yogurt Dressing:

Full-fat plain Greek yogurt (1 cup): Creates a creamy, tangy base for the dressing.
Extra virgin olive oil (2 tbsp): Adds richness and helps emulsify the dressing.
Minced garlic (½ tbsp): Brings a savory, aromatic kick.
Cumin (1 tsp): Adds warm, earthy flavor.
Smoked paprika (½ tsp): Gives a subtle smoky depth.
Sugar (1 tsp): Balances the acidity of the lime and yogurt.
Salt (1 tsp): Enhances all the flavors.
Limes (2, juiced): Provides a bright, zesty tang.

Substitutions and Variations:

Pasta: Swap rotini for penne, fusilli, bowtie, or gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
Black Beans: Use kidney beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas for a different legume.
Corn: Substitute with 1 cup fresh or frozen corn (thawed or lightly sautéed).
Spinach: Replace with arugula, kale, or mixed greens for a different green.
Cilantro: Use parsley or basil if you’re not a cilantro fan.
Greek Yogurt: Swap with sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt for a vegan version.
Lime Juice: Use lemon juice or apple cider vinegar for a different tangy note.
Vegan Option: Use dairy-free yogurt and ensure all other ingredients are vegan.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and double-check canned ingredients for gluten-free certification.

Why These Ingredients Matter: The rotini holds the dressing perfectly, while black beans and corn add heartiness and sweetness. Spinach and cilantro bring freshness, and the Greek yogurt dressing provides a creamy, tangy coating that’s lighter than traditional mayo-based dressings. The lime juice and spices elevate the salad with a zesty, smoky flavor, making every bite delicious.

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook Pasta: Add 16 oz rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions (about 8–10 minutes) until al dente.
Rinse and Drain: Drain the pasta in a strainer and rinse under cool water to stop the cooking process. Drain well and set aside.

Tip: Rinsing the pasta keeps it from sticking and cools it for the salad, ensuring a light texture.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add 1 cup full-fat plain Greek yogurt, 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, ½ tbsp minced garlic, 1 tsp cumin, ½ tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp sugar, 1 tsp salt, and the juice of 2 limes (about ¼ cup).
Mix Until Smooth: Whisk or stir with a spoon until the dressing is creamy and well-combined.

Tip: Taste the dressing and adjust with more lime juice, salt, or sugar to suit your preference.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Combine Ingredients: To the bowl with the dressing, add the drained pasta, 1 can (15 oz) drained and rinsed black beans, 1 can (11 oz) drained corn, 1 cup roughly chopped fresh spinach, and ¼ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro.
Toss Well: Stir gently until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste and add more salt, pepper, or lime juice if desired.

Tip: Fold gently to avoid crushing the beans or tearing the spinach.

Step 4: Serve or Chill

Serve Immediately: For a fresh, room-temperature salad, serve right away.
Chill (Optional): For a colder, more refreshing salad, cover and refrigerate for 2 hours before serving.

Tip: Chilling enhances the flavors, making it perfect for making ahead.