Southwestern Pasta Practically Fat Free
Brighten up your weeknight dinner routine with this vibrant, guilt-free Southwestern Pasta that's practically fat-free! Packed with wholesome whole wheat penne or rotini, fiber-rich black beans, and sweet corn kernels, this easy dish bursts with bold Southwestern flavors from smoky paprika, zesty lime juice, and a medley of warming spices like chili powder and cumin. Fire-roasted tomatoes lend a smoky depth, while fresh red bell peppers and onions add a satisfying crunch. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe combines heartiness with lightness, making it a perfect choice for anyone craving a healthy, flavor-packed meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and enjoy a delicious pasta dish that doesn't skimp on taste or nourishment.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 8 ounces whole wheat pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 15-ounce can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (frozen or canned, drained)
- 1 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes (fire-roasted preferred)
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- 1 medium lime, juiced
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Cook the whole wheat pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened, adding a splash of water as needed to prevent sticking.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat the pasta with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
Squeeze the juice of one lime over the pasta and stir well.
If desired, garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
407 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 3.1 g | 4% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.4 g | 2% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 644 mg | 28% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 83.3 g | 30% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 14.4 g | 51% | |
| Total Sugars | 10.0 g | ||
| Protein | 17.9 g | 36% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 74 mg | 6% | |
| Iron | 5.2 mg | 29% | |
| Potassium | 890 mg | 19% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
