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.

Nutriscore Rating: 77/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

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

Directions

Step 1

Cook the whole wheat pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

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.

Step 3

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4

Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 5

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.

Step 6

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.

Step 7

Squeeze the juice of one lime over the pasta and stir well.

Step 8

If desired, garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1360.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1285.6

Total Fat 11.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 2.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.7g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 3230.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 271.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 35.6g	0%
Total Sugars 42.1g
Protein 48.2g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 225.9mg	0%
Iron 15.4mg	0%
Potassium 2742.8mg	0%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 7.4%

Protein: 14.0%

Carbs: 78.6%