Savor the Flavors of the Southwest with This Delectable Pasta Recipe

Introduction

Are you craving a delicious and flavorful pasta dish that’s easy to make and packed with vibrant Southwestern flavors? Look no further! This Southwest pasta recipe is the perfect fusion of savory and spicy, offering a delightful culinary journey for your taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy your hunger for something truly satisfying.

Ingredients

For this delightful Southwest pasta dish, you will need the following ingredients:
– 8 ounces of penne pasta
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup corn kernels (frozen or fresh)
– 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 lime, juiced
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sliced avocado, sour cream, and additional cilantro for garnish

Directions

1. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with cumin, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink in the center.
3. Add the diced bell pepper, black beans, and corn to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are slightly tender.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with the sauce and chicken mixture.
6. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped cilantro and lime juice.
7. Serve the Southwest pasta hot, with optional toppings such as shredded cheese, sliced avocado, sour cream, and additional cilantro.

FAQ

Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?

A: Absolutely! You can easily omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make a delicious vegetarian version of this Southwest pasta.

Q: Can I make this pasta ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the Southwest pasta ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Q: Is it possible to adjust the spiciness level?

A: Of course! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of chili powder or omit it altogether. On the other hand, if you love the heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

Q: What can I serve alongside this Southwest pasta?

A: This pasta dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or even some crunchy tortilla chips and salsa for a complete Southwestern-inspired meal.

Q: How can I store any leftovers?

A: If you have any leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and when ready to enjoy, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Now that you have this wonderful Southwest pasta recipe at your fingertips, you can treat yourself and your loved ones to a delightful meal filled with the bold and delicious flavors of the Southwest. Whether it’s for a cozy weeknight dinner or a laid-back weekend gathering, this pasta dish is sure to be a hit!