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 Southwestern Pasta Salad?

You need 10 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 2 cups uncooked rotini pasta (8 oz.), 1 cup frozen sweet corn, 1 (16 ounce) jar medium garlic-cilantro salsa (I use Muir Glen organic), 1/4 cup olive oil, and more.

Is Southwestern Pasta Salad suitable as pasta & noodles?

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

How do I store leftover 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.

Southwestern Pasta Salad Recipe

Name: Southwestern Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups uncooked rotini pasta (8 oz.); 1 cup frozen sweet corn; 1 (16 ounce) jar medium garlic-cilantro salsa (I use Muir Glen organic); 1/4 cup olive oil; 3 tablespoons lime juice; 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt (kosher or sea); 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped (1 cup); 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained, rinsed; 1 (2 1/4 ounce) can sliced ripe olives, drained

Fresh, crisp and full of flavor — this Southwestern Pasta Salad is a must-try. Made with rotini pasta, frozen sweet corn, garlic-cilantro salsa and oliv…

This Southwestern Pasta Salad relies on simple, everyday ingredients such as frozen sweet corn, olive oil, lime juice and coarse salt (kosher or sea). It comes together quickly and makes 4 servings, at about 681 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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Southwestern Pasta Salad

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

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Frequently Asked Questions