This protein packed Southwest Pasta is smoky with a touch of sweet. It has flavors that remind me of some of my favorite tacos.
For this Southwest Pasta, I had a vision in my mind (or should I say a taste profile in my mind) of what I wanted to create. That is usually the way a recipe starts for me.
Either I have an obnoxiously large amount of produce to use up (see some of my Market on the Move posts) and a need to make some recipes, or I have a craving with a recipe in my mind of what I want.
I knew I wanted a taco-like flavor for this pasta, but I surprised myself, and surpassed my expectations. This Southwest Pasta reminds me of a wonderful cilantro chipotle salsa that I have had on many occasions. One of these days I will recreate it for you all...
I originally was considering adding in avocado and black olives to this recipe. However, I literally ran out of room in my bowl to include any more ingredients. When that happened, I thought to myself, maybe this is supposed to be the recipe!
If you have read any posts besides my recipes, you will understand where I am coming from. Hint: see any post with the tag synchronicity and you will understand what I mean.
Obviously, I could have put half the mixture in another bowl, which I was about to do, but then I thought that avocados might not be the best addition. Let me explain.
They like to turn color - as in brownish. Don't get me wrong, I love avocados - their creaminess, their healthy fat, their taste, but they can turn on you! I created this recipe with potlucks, parties and leftovers for lunch in mind!
Feel free to add in avocado and /or black olives, if that suits you. I would recommend adding lime juice directly to the avocado to slow the browning process.
Other Recipes You Might Like
- Sriracha Coleslaw
- Red Pepper and Artichoke Pasta Salad
- Vegan Broccoli Salad with Dried Cranberries
- Sweet Potato Salad with Agave Mustard Dressing
- Curried Carrot Salad
Southwest Pasta
This vegan pasta salad is perfect for a party or potluck because it can be served at room temperature.
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Here's the pasta I used to make the pasta salad. I love the taste of it.
Southwest Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 oz. gluten free Rotelle pasta - I used a lentil quinoa pasta
- 15 oz. can black beans
- ½ cup chopped red pepper
- 2 stalks green onion
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- 1 cup quartered grape or cherry tomatoes
- ½ cup corn
Dressing
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 chipotles chiles in adobo sauce
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- ¼ cup cilantro
- ¼ cup key lime juice
- 1 clove garlic minced
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Make pasta according to directions. Set aside to cool.
- Mix black beans, red pepper, green onion, cilantro, grape or cherry tomatoes, and corn in a bowl. Add in pasta after it cools.
- Dressing: In a blender or Nutribullet, mix dressing ingredients. Add to pasta mixture, and mix thoroughly.
Nutrition
*Note: Nutrition information should be considered an estimate only. Different nutrition calculators give you different results.
Caroline says
This looks super yummy!
Willow Moon says
Thanks Caroline!
bethani says
Totally pinning for a picnic day!!! This sounds absolutely delicious & is so easy. Great twist on a classic pasta salad.
Thanks for sharing 🙂
Willow Moon says
Thanks! You are making me want to go on a picnic! Great idea!
Julie McCorkle says
looks yummy and healthy too! Can't wait to try this.
Willow Moon says
And even healthier with the high protein pasta!
Ros Emely@stressfreemommies says
Delicious and healthy! I am a pasta lover and I love the corn, beans, tomatoes and cilantro flavors together!
Willow Moon says
They are a marriage made in heaven, aren't they! I think because I live in Tucson, I make more Mexican inspired dishes than when I have lived elsewhere. I use this combination in a lot of recipes.
Clare Speer says
This looks so good - bring on anything pasta and this looks wonderful!
Willow Moon says
Ever since I found some good gluten free pasta, I have been enjoying it more and more myself!
theveganistafoodie says
This looks super yummy and healthy. I'll have to try it.
Fran says
I love all the flavors!
Willow Moon says
Thanks Fran!