Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a mouthwatering Southwestern pasta dish that'll transport you straight to the heart of flavor country! 🌶️🍝 This isn't just another pasta recipe - it's a culinary adventure that combines the bold, zesty flavors of the Southwest with the comforting embrace of perfectly cooked pasta. In just 30 minutes, you'll create a meal that's so delicious, it'll have your family and friends begging for seconds (and maybe even the recipe)!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Southwestern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 300g pasta
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 cup black beans, drained
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare a large skillet over medium heat. Add the corn kernels and black beans, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes and sprinkle the chili powder and cumin over the mixture. Stir to combine and allow the spices to bloom and release their flavors, about 2-3 minutes.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper, adjusting to taste. The black beans and tomatoes will provide some natural saltiness, so add salt sparingly.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it thoroughly, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce consistency.
- Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the Southwestern sauce. Toss gently to ensure every pasta piece is well coated.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to create a smoother consistency.
- Remove from heat and transfer to serving plates. Garnish generously with fresh chopped cilantro.
- Serve immediately while hot, enjoying the vibrant Southwestern flavors and textures.
Tips
- Cook your pasta al dente: The key to a perfect pasta dish is not overcooking the noodles. Test them a minute before the package instructions suggest for that perfect bite.
- Bloom your spices: When adding chili powder and cumin, let them cook for a few minutes to release their full flavor potential. This simple step will dramatically enhance the overall taste of your dish.
- Save some pasta water: The starchy water helps create a silky sauce and helps the seasonings stick to the pasta. Don't drain it all away!
- Fresh is best: Use fresh cilantro for garnishing. The bright, fresh flavor will really make the Southwestern flavors pop.
- Customize your heat: If you love spice, add a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños. If you prefer it milder, reduce the chili powder.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side of sour cream or a quick avocado salad to complement the bold flavors of the pasta.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 65g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
