Southwestern Pasta -- Practically Fat Free

Mirj's Note:

Pasta, salsa, chiles, black beans, it's a great combination. No added fats, and if you are food combining, it's a great carb meal if you use whole wheat pasta.

• Total Time: 30 mins
• Prep Time: 5 mins
• Cook Time: 25 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 8

• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 lb rotelle pasta or 1 lb other pastas (I try for whole wheat)
• 1 (16 ounce) jar salsa
• 1 (4 ounce) can chopped green chilies
• 2 (15 ounce) cans black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 green onion, finely chopped

Directions:

1. In large pot, bring 4 quarts of water to boil.
2. When the water boils, add the salt and pasta, stirring to prevent sticking.
3. Cook until al dente, stirring occasionally, about 11 minutes.
4. Meanwhile in medium saucepan, combine salsa, chilies, and black beans.
5. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until mixture simmers but does not boil.
6. Continue to simmer over very low heat.
7. Scoop out half cup pasta water and reserve.
8. Drain pasta and transfer to serving bowl.
9. Add salsa-bean mixture and toss to coat.
10. Add green onion, toss to mix.
11. If it seems dry, add some of the reserved pasta water.

Reviews

[Bogey'sMom]

Excellent vegetarian meal. The chilies add just the right amount of spice. I would imagine chicken would be an easy addition as well.

[Blissful74]

This recipe was quite good and very easy!!

[PatriotsGirl]

This was pretty good, but I agree with one of the previous posters - I think it needs some chicken or something. It just felt like something was missing. It was super easy though! I brought some for lunch today and I think I will eat it cold, I have a feeling I will like it better that way. I used medium salsa, and next time I think I will use mild. A little too much spice for me. I also added some fat free shredded cheddar on top, it was a nice addition. Overall, this is as simple and tasty pasta dish that can be thrown together in a flash.