Irresistible Southwest Penne Pasta Recipe for Flavor Lovers

The moment you take a whiff of Southwest Penne Pasta, the enticing aroma wraps around you like a cozy blanket on a chilly day. You can already imagine the creamy sauce mingling with tender penne and vibrant peppers, creating an explosion of flavor that dances on your taste buds. Mexican Macaroni Salad This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience, perfect for everything from a casual weeknight dinner to impressing your friends at a gathering.

Picture this: you’re tossing together colorful veggies, letting the spices swirl in the air, and before you know it, your kitchen transforms into a culinary haven. Whether you’re celebrating Taco Tuesday or simply craving comfort food that doesn’t require chef-level skills, Southwest Penne Pasta is here to save the day. one pan sun dried tomato pasta Get ready for a flavor journey that will have everyone asking for seconds—trust me, they won’t be able to resist!

I still remember the first time I made Southwest Penne Pasta for my friends; their delighted reactions were priceless as they devoured every last bite. Steak Gorgonzola Alfredo.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Penne Pasta: Use whole wheat or gluten-free options if preferred; just cook according to package instructions until al dente.

• Olive Oil: A drizzle of good quality olive oil enhances the richness and adds depth to the dish.

• Red Bell Pepper: Choose firm and glossy peppers for sweetness; they add beautiful color and crunch. For more inspiration, check out this BBQ Chicken Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls recipe.

• Green Bell Pepper: These provide freshness and contrast against the sweetness of red bell peppers.

• Onion: Yellow onions work best for their slight sweetness when sautéed, adding layers of flavor.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves minced finely bring an irresistible aroma and robust flavor.

• Canned Black Beans: Rinse well before using; they add protein and texture while making the dish heartier.

• Corn (fresh or frozen): Sweet corn provides bursts of sweetness that complement the spices beautifully.

• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop at serving time gives creaminess and balances out the spices perfectly.

• Taco Seasoning: Feel free to use store-bought or homemade; it’s essential for that Southwest flair!

• Fresh Cilantro (optional): Chopped cilantro adds freshness; sprinkle some on top just before serving.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Start by boiling water for pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

Sauté vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add diced onion and bell peppers. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.

Add garlic: Toss in minced garlic with sautéed veggies and stir continuously for about one minute until aromatic—this is where it gets exciting! cilantro garlic sauce.

Combine everything: Stir in black beans and corn into your veggie mixture. Sprinkle taco seasoning evenly over everything while mixing thoroughly to coat all ingredients.

Mix in pasta: Drain cooked penne but reserve some pasta water. Add pasta directly into the skillet with veggies. If needed, splash in reserved water to achieve desired creaminess.

Serve it up: Remove from heat and serve hot with sour cream or Greek yogurt on top along with fresh cilantro if desired—enjoy every flavorful bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the penne pasta until al dente. While it cooks, sauté your vegetables and proteins in a separate pan to infuse flavors before mixing everything together.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the proteins or veggies based on what you have. You can even add black beans for extra protein or change the spices for a different kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water if necessary to maintain moisture.

Nothing warms my heart quite like hearing my friends rave about this dish at dinner parties; it has become my go-to recipe that impresses every time.

FAQ

Can I use gluten-free pasta for Southwest Penne Pasta?

Absolutely! Gluten-free penne works great without sacrificing flavor or texture.

What proteins pair well with this recipe?

Chicken, shrimp, or even tofu are excellent options that complement the spices perfectly. For more inspiration, check out this Slow Cooker Queso Chicken Tacos recipe.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Consider adding diced jalapeños or using a spicy salsa in the sauce mixture.

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Southwest Penne Pasta

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• Author: Larissa W.
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Southwest Penne Pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together creamy sauce, al dente penne, and colorful veggies for a delightful culinary experience. Perfect for casual weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe is easy to prepare and sure to impress. The zesty spices combined with fresh ingredients create an explosion of taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

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Ingredients

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• 8 oz penne pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp taco seasoning
• Fresh cilantro (optional)

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Instructions

1. Boil water in a large pot. Add penne pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Sauté onions and bell peppers for about 5–7 minutes until softened.
3. Add minced garlic to the skillet; stir continuously for about one minute until fragrant.
4. Incorporate black beans and corn into the sautéed vegetables. Sprinkle taco seasoning evenly over the mixture and stir well.
5. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. If needed, splash in reserved pasta water to achieve desired creaminess.
6. Serve hot topped with sour cream or Greek yogurt and fresh cilantro if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Southwest

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 61g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 10mg