Get ready to transform your weeknight dinner into a mouthwatering fiesta of flavors! This Southwestern Pasta and Beans recipe is not just a meal—it's a culinary adventure that brings the vibrant tastes of the Southwest right to your dinner table. With a perfect blend of hearty pasta, protein-packed black beans, and zesty spices, this dish will have your taste buds dancing and your family asking for seconds. The best part? You can whip up this delicious meal in just 30 minutes, making it the ultimate solution for busy home cooks craving something exciting and satisfying.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add pasta to boiling water and cook according to package directions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Add diced bell peppers to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften and become slightly translucent.
- Drain and rinse black beans, then add them to the skillet with the bell peppers.
- Add frozen or canned corn to the skillet. Stir to combine with beans and peppers.
- Sprinkle cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper over the bean and vegetable mixture. Stir to distribute spices evenly.
- Drain cooked pasta and return it to the pot. Add the bean and vegetable mixture to the pasta.
- Gently toss all ingredients together, ensuring even distribution of beans, vegetables, and spices.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro just before serving.
- Serve hot, optionally with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top.
Tips
- For maximum flavor, toast your spices in the skillet for 30 seconds before adding vegetables to enhance their aromatic qualities.
- Use fresh cilantro if possible—it adds a bright, fresh note that dried herbs can't match.
- For extra protein, consider adding grilled chicken or seasoned ground turkey to the dish.
- If you prefer a spicier version, add a diced jalapeño with the bell peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- To make this dish more creamy, stir in a few tablespoons of Greek yogurt or sour cream just before serving.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta alternative.
- Always reserve a little pasta water before draining—it can help create a silkier sauce if the mixture seems dry.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 65g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
