Wagon Wheel Pasta Salad

I tend to take some time to warm up to trends. Uggs. Leggings. Booties (although I'm still unsure about those things.) I have to see it several times, done several ways, and then I decide if it's for me. The same can be said with my food blog. Everyone and their mother made penne a la Betsy. I did too- just way later. Then everyone and their mother made crispy yogurt chicken. Yup- again I made it. Just months later. Then there were the cake balls and best big fat chewy chocolate chip cookies. Again, a little late to the trend. Let's not forget the Oreo truffles. So the newest trend was this pasta salad. Everyone was raving about it, making it, swearing up and down by it. I knew I'd make it eventually, but in true fashion I waited until months after the craze. I guess I'm a follower, and not a very good one at that!

Well one thing I have learned is that usually the craze was well worth it. Sure enough the same could be said for this salad. I made it for my neighborhood block party and it was delicious. Being the weirdo that I am I took note of who's plate had it and who's didn't. I saw many plates loaded with this stuff! It is a different take on pasta salad and definitely worth the craze. Enjoy- it's quite tasty!

Source: Cara's Cravings

Wagon Wheel Taco Pasta Salad
1lb wagon wheel pasta
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 10oz package frozen corn
2 medium tomatoes, seeded and diced
8oz shredded Mexican-blend cheese
1 1/2 cups salsa
1/2 cup olive oil
3-4 tbsp lime juice
1 tbsp cumin
1-2 tsp chili powder
2 garlic cloves, minced
freshly ground salt & pepper
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 avocado, diced

Cook the pasta al dente according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.

In a large bowl, combine the black beans, corn, tomatoes, salsa, and cheese. Add the cooled pasta and mix well.

In another bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cumin and chili powder. Pour over the pasta salad, add the cilantro, and mix well. Season to taste with salt & pepper.

Just before serving, stir in the diced avocado.