Tangy Taco Pasta Salad Wraps

Name: Tangy Taco Pasta Salad Wraps
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked pasta (elbow or rotini); 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen); 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 avocado, diced; 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream; Juice of 1 lime; 4 large lettuce leaves (romaine or butter lettuce); Additional cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Effortless Cooking Creations

I’ve found the perfect way to enjoy a classic taco in a fresh, vibrant wrap! The Tangy Taco Pasta Salad Wraps combine the zesty flavors of taco seasoning with the satisfying texture of pasta, all wrapped up in a crisp lettuce leaf. It’s a delightful dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also a great way to use up leftover pasta. Whether it’s a lunch, a picnic, or a quick dinner, these wraps are sure to please everyone at the table!

Created by

Lina

Last updated on 2026-02-01T15:38:28.280Z

When I first thought about making a fusion dish, I knew I wanted something light yet satisfying. I experimented with various ingredients and finally landed on these wraps, which blend the best of both worlds—tacos and pasta salad. The tangy dressing I created adds an extra layer of flavor, making every bite a burst of deliciousness.

One key tip I learned is to let the pasta salad chill for a bit before assembling the wraps. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each wrap taste even better. It’s a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Unique twist on classic taco flavors
Convenient wrap format for on-the-go meals
Refreshing and light, perfect for warm days

Mastering the Pasta Salad

The base of this Tangy Taco Pasta Salad wraps is the pasta. Choosing the right type of pasta is essential for texture; I recommend using elbow or rotini as they hold the dressing well and provide a delightful bite. Make sure to cook the pasta al dente, so it retains its firmness when mixed with other ingredients. Drain the pasta thoroughly and allow it to cool before mixing in fresh vegetables to prevent wilting.

Incorporating a variety of colorful veggies not only makes the dish visually appealing but also enhances its nutritional profile. For instance, red bell peppers add a sweet crunch, while cherry tomatoes contribute juiciness and acidity. Feel free to experiment with vegetables you have on hand – diced cucumbers or roasted corn can be excellent substitutes that bring new flavors to this recipe.

Assembly Tips for Perfect Wraps

When assembling the wraps, ensure the lettuce leaves are fresh and crisp. Romaine or butter lettuce is ideal; they provide a sturdy yet tender base that can hold the filling without tearing. If the leaves seem too soft, you can gently crisp them by soaking them in ice water for a few minutes before drying them. This step enhances the wraps’ texture and stability while providing a refreshing crunch.

To enhance the flavor and presentation, consider garnishing your wraps with additional cilantro or a squeeze of lime just before serving. This will brighten the overall taste and make the dish feel more vibrant. If you're preparing these wraps in advance, keep the filling and lettuce separate until you're ready to serve. This method will prevent soggy wraps and maintain the crispness of the lettuce for a satisfying crunch.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for these delightful wraps!

For the Pasta Salad

2 cups cooked pasta (elbow or rotini)
1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado, diced
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
1 packet taco seasoning
1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
Juice of 1 lime

For Assembly

4 large lettuce leaves (romaine or butter lettuce)
Additional cilantro for garnish

Make sure to prep everything ahead for a quick assembly!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Tangy Taco Pasta Salad Wraps.

Prepare the Pasta Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, black beans, corn, red bell pepper, red onion, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and cilantro. In a separate small bowl, mix the taco seasoning, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), and lime juice until smooth. Pour this dressing over the pasta salad and toss until everything is well coated.

Assemble the Wraps

Take a large lettuce leaf and spoon some of the pasta salad mixture into the center. Fold the sides over the filling and roll it up tightly. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.

Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with extra cilantro, if desired, and serve immediately. Enjoy your fresh and tangy wraps as a tasty lunch or dinner on the go!

These wraps are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in the refrigerator for a day.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the ingredients based on what you have at home. Adding cheese or different veggies can enhance the flavor and make it your own!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you have leftover pasta salad, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day. Keep in mind that the dressing may cause the pasta and vegetables to become softer over time, so if you prefer a crunchier texture, consider adding the vegetables fresh when serving.

For meal prep, you can assemble your pasta salad on Sundays and portion it out for quick lunches throughout the week. Alternatively, if you want to keep the wraps crisp for later, pack the filling and lettuce leaves separately. This ensures that you can enjoy a crunchy wrap whenever you need a quick bite.

Variations to Explore

Feel free to customize your Tangy Taco Pasta Salad wraps to match your dietary preferences. For a vegetarian option, the black beans provide a great source of protein, but you could also add shredded rotisserie chicken or ground turkey for a heartier meal. If you're looking for a lighter version, consider using a traditional cabbage leaf instead of lettuce, which adds a lovely crunch and is low in calories.

You can also change up the flavors by using different taco seasoning blends. Experiment with chipotle for a smoky kick or add lime zest to enhance the freshness. For an extra layer of flavor, consider incorporating jalapeños for heat or a sprinkle of feta cheese on top for creaminess. These simple adjustments can take your wraps from ordinary to extraordinary!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any type of pasta works, just ensure it’s cooked al dente.

→ How long can I store leftover pasta salad?

You can store it in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Use a vegan yogurt or skip the yogurt entirely and increase the amount of lime juice for added flavor.

→ What can I serve with these wraps?

These wraps pair well with a side of tortilla chips and salsa or a light fruit salad.