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 Southwest Macaroni Salad?

You need 15 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 1 (14 1/2 ounce) box barillaplus rotini pasta, 1 tablespoon lime peel, finely grated, 3 tablespoons lime juice, fresh, 1 (1 1/4 ounce) package taco seasoning mix, and more.

Is Southwest Macaroni Salad suitable as pasta & noodles?

Yes, Southwest Macaroni Salad falls under the Pasta & Noodles category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

How do I store leftover Southwest Macaroni Salad?

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

Southwest Macaroni Salad Recipe

Name: Southwest Macaroni Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 (14 1/2 ounce) box barillaplus rotini pasta; 1 tablespoon lime peel, finely grated; 3 tablespoons lime juice, fresh; 1 (1 1/4 ounce) package taco seasoning mix; 1 pint cherry tomatoes, cut in half (or grape tomatoes); 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, made with 2 percent milk, finely shredded; 2 tablespoons cilantro, finely chopped; 2 medium green onions, sliced; 1 (16 ounce) can dark red kidney beans, rinsed and drained; 1 (4 1/2 ounce) can chopped green chilies, drained; 1 (1 ounce) packet ranch dressing mix, use 1/2 package; 1/4 cup low-fat buttermilk; 1/2 cup nonfat milk; 1/4 cup light mayonnaise; 1/4 cup light sour cream

Fresh, crisp and full of flavor — this Southwest Macaroni Salad is a must-try. Made with barillaplus rotini pasta, lime peel, lime juice and taco season…

This Southwest Macaroni Salad relies on simple, everyday ingredients such as lime peel, finely grated, lime juice, fresh, cilantro, finely chopped and medium green onions, sliced. It comes together quickly and makes 4 servings, at about 459 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

Use a neutral oil or a plant-based spread in place of butter for a dairy-free version.
Coconut cream is a reliable plant-based alternative to dairy cream.

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

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Southwest Macaroni Salad

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

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