Southwestern Pasta Sauce
A vibrant southwestern-inspired pasta sauce with tomatoes, cilantro, and a hint of spice, perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors and quick, flavorful meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large, heavy, non-aluminum saucepan.
- Stir in sliced onions and minced garlic; cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
- Add crushed or coarsely chopped tomatoes, pepper sauce, salt, minced cilantro, and sugar.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for 30 minutes or until slightly thickened.
- Place hot, cooked angel hair pasta on a heated serving platter.
- Top the pasta with the sauce and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika to the sauce. If fresh cilantro isn't available, parsley can be a good substitute. For a spicier kick, use a hotter pepper sauce or add diced jalapeños. This sauce can also be used as a topping for grilled chicken or fish, making it versatile for various meals.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Southwestern Pasta Sauce over the angel hair pasta, garnished with additional fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. You could also serve it alongside Bob'S Refried Beans for a hearty meal that incorporates Mexican recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Southwestern Pasta Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southwestern Pasta Sauce contains roughly 782 calories, with 14g protein, 101g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (29% of the Daily Value), and protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2866mg per serving (125% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While angel hair pasta is recommended for its delicate texture, you can substitute with other pasta types like penne, fettuccine, or gluten-free options. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose to ensure it's perfectly al dente.
Is this sauce suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this Southwestern Pasta Sauce is great for meal prep! You can make a large batch and store it in individual portions. It reheats well, making it an easy option for busy weeknights. Just cook the pasta fresh when you're ready to serve to keep it from becoming mushy.
Can I make this sauce vegan?
Yes, this recipe is inherently vegan, as it does not contain any animal products. Just ensure that the pepper sauce you use is also vegan-friendly. This sauce can also be enjoyed with a variety of vegan recipes, making it a versatile choice for plant-based diets.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).