How many servings does this recipe make?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

What ingredients do I need for Cowboy Salad (Aka Southwestern Pasta Salad)?

You need 17 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 1 (16 ounce) package small pasta shells, 2/3 cup cider vinegar, 1 (15 ounce) can black-eyed peas, drained, 1 (12 ounce) can corn, drained, and more.

Is Cowboy Salad (Aka Southwestern Pasta Salad) suitable as pasta & noodles?

Yes, Cowboy Salad (Aka Southwestern Pasta Salad) falls under the Pasta & Noodles category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

How do I store leftover Cowboy Salad (Aka Southwestern Pasta Salad)?

Keep refrigerated in an airtight container and enjoy within 1–2 days for the best freshness. Best served cold — no reheating needed.

Cowboy Salad (Aka Southwestern Pasta Salad) Recipe

Name: Cowboy Salad (Aka Southwestern Pasta Salad)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 (16 ounce) package small pasta shells; 2/3 cup cider vinegar; 1 (15 ounce) can black-eyed peas, drained; 1 (12 ounce) can corn, drained; 1 cup minced celery; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1/2 cup minced green bell pepper; 1/2 cup drained, pitted, and minced black olives; 6 green onions, minced; 1/3 cup mayonnaise, or to taste; 1 (2 ounce) jar diced pimentos, drained; 1 (2 ounce) jar pimiento-stuffed green olives, drained and minced; 1 tablespoon minced green chile peppers; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper; 3 dashes Worcestershire sauce; 3 dashes hot pepper sauce (such as Cholula(R))

Fresh, crisp and full of flavor — this Cowboy Salad (Aka Southwestern Pasta Salad) is a must-try. Made with pasta shells, cider vinegar, black-eyed peas…

This Cowboy Salad (Aka Southwestern Pasta Salad) relies on simple, everyday ingredients such as cider vinegar, (12 ounce) can corn, drained, minced celery and vegetable oil. It comes together quickly and makes 4 servings, at about 572 kcal each. The step-by-step instructions below are written to be easy to follow, even on a busy day.

It's versatile enough for an easy weeknight dinner yet satisfying enough for guests at the weekend. Serve it with your favorite sides, and keep any leftovers for a quick meal the next day.

Updated Jun 30, 2026

Serves 4 Pasta & Noodles

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Feel free to swap in similar ingredients you already have on hand and adjust seasoning to taste.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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Cowboy Salad (Aka Southwestern Pasta Salad)

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

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Frequently Asked Questions