Southwest Spinach Tofu Pasta Bake

Santa Fe Pasta Bake Recipe

Overview:

Santa Fe Pasta Bake is a hearty one-dish meal that combines the flavors of Southwestern U.S. cuisine with wholesome ingredients like spinach, tofu, beans, and cheese. It’s a versatile dish that can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences, whether you prefer it mild or with a spicy kick.

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Recipe Category: One Dish Meal
• Keywords: Beans, Southwestern U.S., Low Cholesterol, Healthy, Less than 60 Minutes, Oven, Easy

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 409.1
• Total Fat: 12.2g
  • Saturated Fat: 5.3g
• Cholesterol: 22.6mg
• Sodium: 927mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 60.7g
  • Dietary Fiber: 14.2g
  • Sugars: 7.1g
• Protein: 19.9g

Ingredients:

• 10 oz frozen spinach, drained
• 1 block firm tofu (about 1 lb), crumbled
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups cooked pinto beans (or canned, drained and rinsed)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup water
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 8 oz penne pasta, cooked al dente
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare Spinach Tofu Mixture:

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   • In a food processor, combine drained spinach, crumbled tofu, milk, and dried oregano. Process until well combined and smooth.

2. Prepare Tomato Bean Sauce:

   • In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
   • Stir in tomato paste and water, mixing until well combined.
   • Add cooked pinto beans, picante sauce, and chili powder to the skillet. Mix well and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.

3. Combine Pasta and Sauce:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta with the tomato bean sauce mixture. Mix until the pasta is evenly coated.

4. Assemble and Bake:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish.
   • Spread half of the pasta mixture evenly in the greased baking dish.
   • Spoon the spinach tofu mixture over the pasta layer.
   • Top with the remaining pasta mixture, spreading it evenly over the spinach tofu layer.

5. Bake:

   • Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
   • Uncover the dish, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve:

   • Remove from the oven and let the Santa Fe Pasta Bake stand for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Variations:

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder and picante sauce to make it milder or spicier according to your preference.
• Beans and Vegetables: Feel free to substitute or add different beans or vegetables like black beans, corn, or bell peppers to vary the flavors and textures.
• Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese for topping, such as Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses for added flavor.

Santa Fe Pasta Bake is not only a delicious and satisfying meal but also a nutritious option with its high fiber and protein content. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a comforting taste of the Southwest with each bite.