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Easy Mexican Macaroni Salad (Crowd-Pleasing Side Dish) — homemade Mexican Macaroni Salad recipe

Easy Mexican Macaroni Salad

A vibrant and crowd-pleasing Mexican-inspired macaroni salad packed with black beans, corn, and fresh cilantro, perfect for any side dish requirement.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Salad Base
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni cooked and cooled
  • 1 can black beans rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn kernels
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup diced red onion
  • 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Dressing
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Colander

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. Whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl until smooth.
  3. Add the cooled macaroni to the dressing mixture and stir to coat evenly.
  4. Fold in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and cheddar cheese until well combined.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Stir gently before serving and garnish with additional cilantro if desired.

Notes

Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.