Zesty Southern Pasta and Bean Salad Recipe

Yields: 8 servings

Ingredients:

• 2 cups dried small pasta shells
• cup Italian-style salad dressing
• Salt to taste
• 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15 ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained
• 3 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 tablespoons ground cumin
• tablespoon chili powder
• teaspoon onion powder
• teaspoon garlic powder
• teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and ground black pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring it to a rolling boil.
2. Once the water is boiling, stir in the pasta shells and return the water to a boil.
3. Cook the pasta uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 8 to 10 minutes or until tender but firm to the bite.
4. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water. Then, transfer the shells to a large bowl.
5. Stir in the Italian-style dressing and season with salt to taste.
6. Add the pinto beans and black beans to the pasta, followed by the corn, chopped tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
7. Season with additional salt and black pepper as needed. Stir everything to combine thoroughly.
8. Cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Nutrient information is based on available data and may not be available for all ingredients.