Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of the Southwest with our Southwestern Pasta recipes, a culinary journey that combines the bold and vibrant tastes of Mexican and American cuisines. These dishes are an explosion of flavors, featuring a symphony of spices, zesty ingredients, and fresh produce. From the classic Southwestern Pasta Salad, a refreshing medley of pasta, black beans, corn, and a zesty dressing, to the hearty and comforting Southwestern Pasta Bake, a cheesy casserole with layers of pasta, chicken, and a flavorful sauce, there's something for every palate. For a lighter option, try the Southwestern Pasta with Grilled Shrimp, where succulent shrimp and crisp vegetables are tossed in a tangy dressing. And for a vegetarian delight, the Southwestern Pasta with Roasted Vegetables showcases a medley of roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and onions, tossed with pasta and a zesty sauce. Each recipe brings a unique blend of spices, such as chili powder, cumin, and paprika, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. So, embark on this culinary adventure and discover the deliciousness of Southwestern Pasta.
Here are our top 20 tried and tested recipes!
SOUTHWESTERN PASTA SALAD
Really popular at potlucks--make a double batch! Very easy and very delicious. Serve on a bed of lettuce for a nice touch.
Provided by Lisa Provost
Categories Salad 100+ Pasta Salad Recipes Vegetarian Pasta Salad Recipes
Time 30m
Yield 8
Number Of Ingredients 13
Steps:
- Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain.
- In a large bowl combine oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt and garlic. Stir in pasta and set aside to cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in corn, beans, green pepper, red pepper and 1/2 of the cilantro leaves. Spoon onto a platter and garnish with tomatoes and remaining cilantro. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 216.6 calories, Carbohydrate 27.2 g, Fat 10.3 g, Fiber 6.1 g, Protein 6.5 g, SaturatedFat 1.7 g, Sodium 468.3 mg, Sugar 2.4 g
SOUTHWESTERN PASTA SALAD
I created this southwestern pasta salad for a friend who owns a catering business. I was told it was a hit at her events and it's now among the most-requested dishes. -Valonda Seward, Coarsegold, California
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Lunch
Time 30m
Yield 16 servings.
Number Of Ingredients 18
Steps:
- In a small bowl, whisk the first 8 ingredients until blended. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain pasta; rinse with cold water., In a large bowl, mix pasta, corn, beans, tomatoes, olives, peppers, onion and 1/4 cup cilantro. Pour dressing over salad; toss to coat. Refrigerate until serving., Just before serving, top with avocado and the remaining cilantro.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 203 calories, Fat 6g fat (1g saturated fat), Cholesterol 0 cholesterol, Sodium 191mg sodium, Carbohydrate 32g carbohydrate (3g sugars, Fiber 4g fiber), Protein 6g protein. Diabetic Exchanges
SOUTHWESTERN BLACK BEAN PASTA SALAD
When I first served this jazzed-up pasta salad for my mom's birthday dinner, it was so well-received that I couldn't wait to make it again! Chose the flavor of salsa to suit your family's taste.
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Lunch
Time 20m
Yield 9 servings.
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Rinse in cold water; drain. In a large salad bowl, combine the pasta, black beans, peppers and onion. Combine the salad dressing, salsa and cayenne. Pour over pasta mixture; toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour or until chilled.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 282 calories, Fat 15g fat (2g saturated fat), Cholesterol 4mg cholesterol, Sodium 412mg sodium, Carbohydrate 31g carbohydrate (4g sugars, Fiber 3g fiber), Protein 6g protein.
SOUTHWESTERN VEGETARIAN PASTA
Meat-y chickpeas are the protein in this vegetarian pasta dish with a southwestern flavor!
Provided by COLLEEN CAMPO
Categories Main Dish Recipes Pasta
Time 30m
Yield 6
Number Of Ingredients 11
Steps:
- Heat oil in a large, deep skillet. Saute onion, green pepper, garlic, chili powder and cumin. Stir in tomatoes, chickpeas and corn. Reduce heat to low and simmer 15 to 20 minutes, or until thickened and heated through.
- Meanwhile, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain.
- Combine pasta and sauce. Sprinkle each serving with Monterey Jack cheese.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 421.3 calories, Carbohydrate 72.1 g, Cholesterol 8.4 mg, Fat 7.9 g, Fiber 8.3 g, Protein 16 g, SaturatedFat 2.6 g, Sodium 426.3 mg, Sugar 7.3 g
SOUTHWESTERN PASTA & CHEESE
"I decided to give my old mac 'n' cheese recipe a new twist by including some of my favorite Southwestern ingredients. I especially like the smoky flavors of the chipotle and bacon...my family loves it all!" Serve with a salad or veggie. Naomi Reed - McMinnville, Oregon
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Dinner
Time 50m
Yield 8 servings.
Number Of Ingredients 13
Steps:
- Cook pasta according to package directions., Meanwhile, in a large skillet, saute pepper and onions in oil until tender. Stir in the flour, chili powder, chipotle pepper, salt and cumin until blended. Gradually stir in milk. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Stir in 1/4 cup cheese until melted., Drain pasta; toss with sauce. Stir in bacon and cilantro. Transfer to a 2-qt. baking dish coated with cooking spray. Sprinkle with remaining cheese. Bake, uncovered, at 400° for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 240 calories, Fat 8g fat (4g saturated fat), Cholesterol 20mg cholesterol, Sodium 327mg sodium, Carbohydrate 32g carbohydrate (6g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 12g protein. Diabetic Exchanges
SOUTHWESTERN PORK & PASTA
This filling dish is packed with family-pleasing flavor. Also try it with boneless, skinless chicken breast instead of pork. -Nicole Filizetti, Jacksonville, Florida
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Dinner
Time 45m
Yield 10 servings.
Number Of Ingredients 18
Steps:
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a Dutch oven, cook pork in oil in batches until no longer pink; return all to the pan. Add onions and garlic; cook 1 minute longer. Stir in the tomatoes, beans, corn, salsa and spices. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 5 minutes., Combine the cornstarch and water until smooth. Gradually stir into pan. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until slightly thickened. Drain pasta; add to pork mixture and toss to coat., Serve desired amount of pasta with sour cream. Cool remaining pasta; transfer to freezer containers. Cover and freeze for up to 3 months., To use frozen pasta: Thaw in the refrigerator. Place in an ungreased shallow microwave-safe dish. Cover and microwave on high until heated through.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 465 calories, Fat 7g fat (2g saturated fat), Cholesterol 51mg cholesterol, Sodium 1098mg sodium, Carbohydrate 69g carbohydrate (12g sugars, Fiber 9g fiber), Protein 31g protein.
SOUTHWESTERN PASTA
Make and share this Southwestern Pasta recipe from Food.com.
Provided by Paris D
Categories Chicken Breast
Time 50m
Yield 6 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 14
Steps:
- Peel sweet onions and cut into slices about 1/4-inch thick; separate slices into rings.
- In a large deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add onions, chicken, cumin, chili powder, salt and cayenne pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are soft and golden, about 25 minutes.
- Stir in the tomatoes, corn and chiles and cook 2 minutes longer.
- Pour in the chicken stock and increase heat to high. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly, 5 to 10 minutes.
- Combine the sauce, cooked pasta, cilantro and goat cheese, stirring and tossing to soften the cheese.
SOUTHWESTERN PASTA SALAD
Provided by Bobby Flay
Time 15m
Yield 4 servings
Number Of Ingredients 11
Steps:
- Place cooked pasta in a large bowl, add peppers, onions, tomatillo, corn and lima beans. Place vinegar and chipotle peppers in a blender and blend until smooth. Slowly add olive oil until emulsified and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss the salad with the dressing and add cilantro.
COLD SOUTHWESTERN BOW TIE PASTA
An easy pasta salad bursting with flavor. It is fantastic for your next potluck. But bring a lot, it goes fast!
Provided by veithk
Categories Salad 100+ Pasta Salad Recipes Vegetarian Pasta Salad Recipes
Time 1h
Yield 6
Number Of Ingredients 14
Steps:
- Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook the bow tie pasta at a boil, stirring occasionally, until cooked through yet firm to the bite, about 12 minutes; drain.
- Whisk olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, garlic powder, cumin, ground chile pepper, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper together in a large bowl. Stir corn, black beans, diced tomatoes and green chiles, and green onions into the dressing to coat. Gently mix avocados into bean mixture; fold bow tie pasta into the salad. Cover salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 472.9 calories, Carbohydrate 63.8 g, Fat 21.1 g, Fiber 10.3 g, Protein 12.7 g, SaturatedFat 3.1 g, Sodium 415.2 mg, Sugar 4.1 g
ZESTY SOUTHWESTERN PASTA SALAD
This goes over well at potlucks - when there's a choice of more than one pasta salad, this one usually goes first. Oddly enough, the leftovers make good soup, too! I just add the leftovers to some vegetable broth and canned tomatoes, and season it with more of the same spices that were in the recipe. This recipe originally came from allrecipes.com, but I have tweaked it in a way that suits me better. As always I have cut back on the oil and lime juice, so add more back in if it suits you. I love the amount of chili powder and cumin in this, but it may be a bit much for some so use less if you don't like those flavors as much as I do.
Provided by Vino Girl
Categories Pasta Shells
Time 2h30m
Yield 10 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 14
Steps:
- Prepare pasta according to package instructions.
- When making pasta salad, I like to cook my pasta a minute or two less than recommended so it stays firmer in the dressing, and holds up better against breaking apart when tossing.
- Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl whisk together oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt and garlic.
- Gently stir in pasta and set aside.
- Gently stir in corn, beans, green pepper, red pepper, onion, tomatoes and 1/2 of the cilantro leaves.
- Garnish with the remaining cilantro.
- Cover and chill at least 2 hours.
SOUTHWESTERN CHICKEN PASTA SALAD
Dinner ready in 30 minutes! Enjoy this delicious pasta salad flavored with Old El Paso® salsa and made using chicken and corn - perfect for a Southwestern meal.
Provided by By Betty Crocker Kitchens
Categories Entree
Time 30m
Yield 6
Number Of Ingredients 11
Steps:
- Cook and drain rotini as directed on package. Rinse with cold water to cool. Drain well.
- Meanwhile, in large bowl, mix chicken, avocado, tomato, corn, onions and cheese. In small bowl, mix mayonnaise and salsa.
- Add rotini to salad; stir gently to mix. Add mayonnaise mixture to salad; toss to coat. Arrange lettuce blend on individual plates. Spoon salad over lettuce. Sprinkle with cilantro.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 565, Carbohydrate 40 g, Cholesterol 70 mg, Fat 7, Fiber 5 g, Protein 25 g, SaturatedFat 9 g, ServingSize 1 Serving, Sodium 775 mg, Sugar 7 g
SOUTHWESTERN CHICKEN AND PASTA SALAD
Provided by Erin Renouf Mylroie
Categories Salad Chicken Pasta Tomato Kid-Friendly Quick & Easy Back to School Summer Cilantro Bon Appétit California Small Plates
Yield Serves 8
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Cook pasta in large pot of boiling salted water until tender but still firm to bite. Drain; rinse under cold running water and drain again.
- Transfer pasta to large bowl. Add oil and toss to coat. Mix in chicken, green onions, tomatoes, hominy, beans, taco sauce and cilantro. Season salad generously with salt and pepper.
LAYERED SOUTHWESTERN PASTA SALAD
This always goes over very well when I've taken this to pot-lucks. I use low-fat mayonnaise and sour cream, so it makes a healthy, and flavorful dish. In a clear straight-sided bowl, this makes a nice colorful presentation.
Provided by Beth A.
Categories Low Cholesterol
Time 20m
Yield 6 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 13
Steps:
- Prepare pasta according to package directions; drain and rinse under cold water. Drain again.
- Toss with oil and sprinkle with cumin; salt to taste.
- Layer pasta, beans, corn, bell pepper, green onion and olives in a 2 1/2 to 3 quart straight sided bowl.
- In a small bowl combine mayo, sour cream and salsa; mix well. Spread evenly over top of pasta, sealing to edge of bowl. Sprinkle with cilantro.
- (Best if refrigerated several hours, or overnight before serving.).
Nutrition Facts : Calories 475.2, Fat 18.1, SaturatedFat 4.6, Cholesterol 16.1, Sodium 621.5, Carbohydrate 67.3, Fiber 9.9, Sugar 5.7, Protein 14.4
PASTA IN SOUTHWESTERN SAUCE
From a very old Vegetarian Times magazine. I don't know how "southwestern" sun-dried tomatoes really are...regardless, this is a good, easy sauce for pasta.
Provided by Aunt Cookie
Categories Vegetable
Time 35m
Yield 2 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- Heat the sherry and oil in a heavy skillet over med-high until it boils.
- Saute the garlic and shallots for 3 minutes, stirring.
- Add the both types of tomatoes and the jalapenos.
- Reduce heat to low, and cook for 20 minutes. Stir occasionally.
- While sauce simmers, prepare the pasta (fresh pasta should only need to boil for 5 minutes or less). Stir the fresh pasta occasionally, as it can get pretty sticky.
- Drain the pasta, rinse briefly with hot water, and drain again.
- Add the pasta to the skillet with the sauce, then sprinkle in the fresh herbs.
- Toss pasta and sauce together, then serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 541.7, Fat 6.2, SaturatedFat 0.9, Cholesterol 82.8, Sodium 203.7, Carbohydrate 80.2, Fiber 3.1, Sugar 6.2, Protein 15.9
SOUTHWESTERN PASTA & CHEESE
From Taste of Home's Healthy Cooking Magazine. Naomi Reed of McMinnville Oregon wrote, "I gave mac and cheese a twist by adding some favorite ingredients. My family absolutely loves this side dish."
Provided by Shelby Jo
Categories Spicy
Time 50m
Yield 8 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 13
Steps:
- Cook pasta according to package directions.
- Meanwhile, in a large skillet, saute pepper and onions in oil until tender. Stir in the flour, chili powder, cumin, salt, and chipotle pepper until blended. Gradually stir in milk. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Stir in 1/4 cup cheese until melted.
- Drain pasta; toss with sauce. Stir in bacon and cilantro. Transfer to a 2 quart baking dish coated with cooking spray. Sprinkle with remaining cheese. Bake, uncovered, at 400 degrees for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly.
SOUTHWESTERN-STYLE PASTA SKILLET
Make and share this Southwestern-Style Pasta Skillet recipe from Food.com.
Provided by MsSally
Categories One Dish Meal
Time 30m
Yield 4 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Prepare macaroni as label directs but do not add salt to water; drain and keep warm.
- Meanwhile, in 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat, cook sausage, green pepper, and onion, stirring frequently until vegetables are tender; discard any fat in skillet.
- Stir in zucchini, stewed tomatoes, corn, and chilies with their liquid; heat to boiling. Reduce heat to low; cook 10 minutes to blend flavors.
- Stir macaroni into mixture in skillet; sprinkle with shredded cheese.
V'S SOUTHWESTERN PASTA SALAD
If you like a citrus based dressing with rotini pasta, give this one a try. I make this salad for a nice refreshing twist for pasta salad. This is one of our family favorite Southwestern Salads. Enjoy as a side dish or add cooked chicken and make it a meal in one! Served chilled Bueno ;)
Provided by Vseward Chef-V
Categories Salad Dressings
Time 30m
Yield 10-12 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 19
Steps:
- Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain.
- In a large bowl combine oil, vinegar, lime juice, cayenne, cumin, salt, garlic, dried cilantro and salsa.
- Stir in corn, beans, green pepper, red pepper, tomatoes, olives and 1/2 of the cilantro leaves. Spoon onto a platter and garnish with avocado and remaining cilantro. Serve chilled.
SOUTHWESTERN VEGETARIAN PASTA
Make and share this Southwestern Vegetarian Pasta recipe from Food.com.
Provided by Cucina Casalingo
Categories Low Cholesterol
Time 30m
Yield 6 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 11
Steps:
- Heat oil in a large, deep skillet. Saute onion, green pepper, garlic, chili powder and cumin.
- Stir in tomatoes, chickpeas and corn. Reduce heat to low and simmer 15 to 20 minutes, or until thickened and heated through.
- Meanwhile, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain.
- Combine pasta and sauce.
- Sprinkle each serving with Monterey Jack cheese.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 450.2, Fat 7.9, SaturatedFat 2.5, Cholesterol 8.4, Sodium 502.6, Carbohydrate 81, Fiber 8.8, Sugar 6, Protein 17
RACHAEL RAY'S SOUTHWESTERN CHILI CON QUESO PASTA BAKE RECIPE - (4.5/5)
Provided by kayjayjohnson
Number Of Ingredients 16
Steps:
- Preheat the broiler to high and position the rack 8 inches from the heat. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Salt the boiling water and cook the pasta until slightly undercooked--a little chewy at the center. While the water is coming to a boil, preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat and brown the hamburger. When the hamburger is almost finished, but still a little pink, throw in the garlic, jalepeño, and onions and finish cooking until the burger is browned and the onion is translucent. Drain the grease from the skillet and mix in the cumin, coriander and chili powder. Take off the heat or turn heat down low. In a medium sauce pot (and you can do this while you're browning the hamburger), melt the butter and add the flour to it. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes over moderate heat and then whisk in the milk. When the milk comes to a bubble, stir in the cheese, cilantro and parsley with a wooden spoon. When the cheese has melted, stir in the tomatoes. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it back into the large pot. Add the contents of the hamburger and all of the Cheddar sauce, and stir to combine. Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with a bit more cheese if you wish, and place under the broiler to lightly brown.
PASTA WITH SOUTHWESTERN SAUCE
Steps:
- In a heavy skillet over medium high heat, heat the sherrry and oil till bubbly; saute garlic and shallots about 3 min.;add sun dried tomatoes, jalapenos and regular tomatoes. Reduce heat to low, cook uncovered for 20 minutes stirring occasionaly. Add cooked pasta to skillet, add basil and parsley, toss to coat.
Tips:
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients. This will make a big difference in the flavor of your dish.
- Don't be afraid to experiment. There are many different ways to make Southwestern pasta, so feel free to add your own personal touch.
- Make sure to cook the pasta al dente. This means that it should be cooked until it is still slightly firm to the bite.
- Use a variety of toppings. This will add flavor and texture to your dish. Some good options include grilled chicken, black beans, corn, tomatoes, and avocado.
- Serve immediately. Southwestern pasta is best enjoyed fresh out of the pot.
Conclusion:
Southwestern pasta is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a great option for a quick and easy weeknight meal, or for a more festive gathering. With so many different ways to make it, there is sure to be a Southwestern pasta recipe that everyone will love. So next time you are looking for something new and exciting to try, give Southwestern pasta a try. You won't be disappointed!
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