Looking for a quick and delicious meal that packs a punch of flavor? Dive into the vibrant world of "Pasta with Mexican Black Bean Sauce," a dish that combines the comforting essence of pasta with the bold, zesty notes of Mexican cuisine. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a colorful, nutritious dish that tantalizes your taste buds and leaves your guests asking for seconds! Whether you're a busy professional or a culinary enthusiast, this recipe is your ticket to a satisfying dinner that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. Read on to discover how to create this delightful fusion of flavors in your own kitchen!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add chopped bell pepper to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until the pepper begins to soften.
- Drain and rinse the black beans, then add them to the skillet along with the corn.
- Sprinkle cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper over the bean and vegetable mixture. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and the ingredients to heat through.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it thoroughly, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water if needed to adjust sauce consistency.
- Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet with the black bean sauce. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated. If the mixture seems dry, add a little reserved pasta water.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preference.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or a sprinkle of cheese if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: While any pasta will work, consider using whole wheat or gluten-free options for added nutrition and dietary flexibility.
- Customize the Heat: If you like a little extra kick, feel free to add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when sautéing the garlic.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh bell peppers and high-quality olive oil can elevate the flavors significantly, making your dish even more delicious.
- Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust the salt, pepper, and spices to suit your palate, ensuring every bite is perfectly seasoned.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or crumbled queso fresco can add a refreshing finish to your dish, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
- Leftover Magic: This pasta dish keeps well in the fridge for a couple of days, making it a great option for meal prep. Just reheat and enjoy!
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition and color.With these tips, you’re all set to create a memorable meal that’s sure to impress!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
