5-Ingredient Southwestern Salsa Pasta

Looking for a quick, healthy, and flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights? This Easy Southwestern Salsa Pasta is just the ticket! With tender pasta twists, sweet corn, hearty black beans, and zesty salsa, this wholesome vegetarian dish comes together effortlessly and delivers a satisfying Southwestern kick. Whether you’re feeding the family or meal prepping for the week, this easy recipe is sure to be a hit. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients. Get ready to enjoy a deliciously simple dinner that’s as easy as it is delicious!

How Many Calories and WeightWatchers Points in this Easy Vegetarian Southwestern Pasta with Salsa?

According to my calculations, each serving has 201 calories and 4 WW Points. To see your WW Points for this recipe and track it in the WW app, Click here! (You must be logged into the WW app on a smartphone or tablet.)

Recipe Ingredients

Rotini pasta (8 ounces) – Though pasta spirals work well in this recipe, any shortcut pasta would work such as penne, ziti, shells, elbows, bowties, etc.

Cooked fresh corn or frozen corn kernels, thawed – adds natural sweetness and a crunchy texture, balancing the spiciness of the salsa and complementing the hearty beans. (I scraped the kernels from 2 ears of corn and then microwaved for a few minutes to cook slightly which worked beautifully.)

Canned black beans, drained and rinsed – add heartiness and protein to the dish, making it more filling and nutritious. They also contribute a slightly earthy flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients. Substitute whatever beans you prefer such as kidney, pinto, etc.

Jarred tomato salsa, mild or medium, or to taste – acts as the main sauce for the dish, bringing moisture, flavor, and a bit of heat. It ties all the ingredients together with its tangy and spicy notes.

Thinly sliced scallions – also known as green onions, add a fresh, slightly sharp flavor that brightens the dish and complements the richness of the beans and salsa.

Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish, optional – a fragrant herb with a fresh, citrusy flavor commonly used in Southwestern and Mexican cuisine. As a garnish, cilantro adds a fresh, herbaceous note that enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish, adding brightness and a touch of color.

How to Make Easy Southwestern Salsa Pasta Step by Step

Rotini twist pasta, sliced scallions, corn kernels, black beans, salsa

Step 1: Gather and Prep your ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the pasta according to package directions and drain.

Cooked and drained rotini twist pasta

Step 3: Meanwhile in a saucepan stir together the corn, beans, salsa and scallions. Simmer, stirring occasionally until well heated.

Corn, black beans, salsa, and scallions ready to simmer

Step 4: Combine the drained pasta and sauce. Stir well to combine. Serve.

Stirring together the salsa mixture and cooked pasta

Recipe Notes, Substitutions & Variations

No Rotini? Any short cut pasta will work such as penne, elbows, ziti, bowties, shells, etc. You could also substitute gluten free or wholegrain, or one of the higher protein pastas if you prefer.

No Corn? Lightly cooked zucchini, chopped roasted red bell peppers and/or canned hominy could be substituted.

No Black Beans? Any bean could be used such as kidney, white, pinto or chickpeas.

No Tomato Salsa? Try with tomatillo salsa for a tangier note or possible enchilada sauce.

No scallions? – Finely chopped red onions or white onions would provide a stronger onion flavor. Chopped chives a milder note.

Heartier? – Add your favorite cooked protein such as leftover shredded rotisserie chicken, chopped grilled chicken, sliced cooked chicken or turkey sausages, cooked shrimp or chopped tofu.

5-Ingredient Southwestern Salsa Pasta ready to enjoy

Serving Suggestions

Add a Dollop of Guacamole or Avocado Slices The creaminess of avocado pairs well with the tangy salsa and adds healthy fats to the meal. Top with Shredded Cheese Sprinkle shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend on top to add a touch of richness. Add a Dollop of Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt – Top each serving with a dollop of light sour cream or plain Greek yogurt. Sprinkle with Crumbled Cotija or Feta Cheese – Cotija cheese is a Mexican cheese made from cow’s milk. It is named after the town of Cotija in the state of Michoacán, Mexico. It is crumbly and firm, similar to Parmesan or feta. Either will add a salty, tangy bite that complements the bold flavors of the salsa and beans. Serve with Sliced Jalapeños or Hot Sauce – Add sliced fresh or pickled jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat. Garnish with Fresh Lime Wedges – A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens the flavors and adds a zesty citrus note that enhances the overall dish. Serve with a Fresh Salad – A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or a tangy lime dressing adds a crunchy contrast to the pasta. Add a Side of Roasted Vegetables – Serve with roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and/or sweet potatoes adding a smoky flavor. This Southwestern Sweet Potato Salad or Spicy Roasted Sweet Potatoes would be delicious. Spicy Roasted Sweet Potatoes

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Recipe Source: The Vegetarian 5-Ingredient Gourmet

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