Description
A creamy pasta dish packed with Southwest flavors, perfect for a vegetarian meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 pound (227g) small-shaped pasta, any kind (gluten-free, if needed)
- 2 medium ripe avocados
- 1–2 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) lime juice
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
- 1/41/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 11/2 teaspoon (6g) kosher salt, divided
- 1/2 cup (15g) cilantro leaves, plus extra for garnishing
- 1 cup (150g) grape or cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
- 1 cup (150g) corn kernels, frozen, fresh, or canned
- 15 ounces (425g) canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/21/2 teaspoon chili powder
Instructions
- Cook Pasta & Saute: Start by cooking your favorite pasta until it is nice and al dente. As it cooks, breathe in that comforting pasta aroma. While it is simmering away, heat up a pan, adding a drizzle of olive oil.
- Blend Avocado Sauce: Scoop avocados into a blender and toss in garlic, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Blend until creamy and smooth, and make sure to blend thoroughly—clumps will not achieve that luxurious creaminess you are after.
- Toss in Spice: Add chili powder and cumin to the avocado mix, then blend again. Taste the mix and adjust seasoning for that perfect kick.
- Combine Pasta & Sauce: Once the pasta is ready, drain it and return it to the warm pot. Pour in the avocado sauce and mix gently, making sure every noodle gets covered. Do not let the pasta sit too long or it could dry out.
- Garnish & Serve: Top your pasta with fresh cilantro and diced tomatoes right before serving. Serve immediately for the best experience; pasta does not hold well once mixed.
Notes
- Storage Tips: Airtight container, refrigerate, up to 2 days.
- Expert Tips: Always taste the dish and adjust seasoning to your preference. For best results, serve the pasta the day it is made.
- Reheating Instructions: If using leftovers, gently reheat in a pan with a splash of water or additional lime juice to refresh.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with a squeeze of fresh lime on top. Pair with a side salad for a complete meal. Garnish with extra cilantro or diced red onion for added color.
- Recipe Variations: Add diced bell pepper for extra crunch. Incorporate grilled corn for added flavor. Top with crumbled feta for a tangy finish.
- Ingredient Notes: Select ripe avocados for best flavor and creaminess. For gluten-free options, choose gluten-free small-shaped pasta. This dish offers many customizations based on your preferences.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 558
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 1092mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 78g
- Fiber: 15g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: null