Cheese Tortellini Pasta Salad

INGREDIENTS:

• 20 oz pkg three cheese
• Refrigerated tortellini
• 1 c corn (canned or frozen)
• 15 oz can black beans, drained
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 avocado, chopped
• 1-1/2 c halved cherry tomatoes
• 1/4 c chopped red onion
• 1/4 c fresh cilantro, chopped

DRESSING:

• 3 T olive oil
• Juice from 2 limes
• 2 T rice vinegar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 t sugar
• 1 t chili powder
• 1 t ground cumin
• Salt and Pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS:

1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and rinse with cold water, and add to a large bowl.
2. Add corn, beans, bell pepper, avocado, cherry tomatoes, onion, and cilantro.
3. Combine dressing ingredients in a jar; shake until combined and pour over salad, toss to coat.
4. Variations: Add protein (grilled chicken, shrimp or steak). Use your favorite type of beans and/or veggies. May use your favorite zesty southwest or Italian dressing instead of making dressing from scratch. Salad can be made ahead: cook pasta, chop veggies, and make dressing; refrigerate and store separately, combine just before serving.