Recipe: Mexican Pasta Salad (Ortega recipe)

MEXICAN PASTA SALAD

3 cups (8 ounces) rotini pasta, uncooked
1 (1.25-ounce) package Ortega Taco Seasoning Mix
1/2 cup sour cream*
1/4 cup water
1 tablespoon white vinegar
1 cup cherry tomato halves
1 (4 ounce) can Ortega Diced Green Chiles
1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
1 (2.25-ounce) can sliced ripe olives, drained
2 green onions, sliced
2 Ortega Taco Shells, coarsely crushed
1/2 cup Ortega Thick & Chunky Salsa
1/2 cup (2 ounces) shredded Cheddar cheese

Cook rotini according to package directions (do not overcook); drain. Rinse with cold water until cooled; drain.

Stir together taco seasoning mix, sour cream, water and vinegar in large bowl until blended. Stir in rotini, cherry tomatoes, green chiles, bell pepper, olives and green onions. If desired, stir in a little water for creamier texture.

Microwave crushed taco shells on HIGH 30 to 45 seconds.

Place pasta in serving bowl. Taste salad and adjust seasonings if necessary.

Top with salsa, crushed taco shells and cheese just before serving.

*Use light or reduced-fat sour cream if preferred.

Makes 8 servings (3/4 cup each)
Source: Ortega Products