TEX-MEX CAVATAPPI

Tex-Mex Cavatappi image

Provided by Baby Kato

Categories Beef

Time 40m

Number Of Ingredients 11

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2 tablespoons cooking oil
1 pound ground beef
1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/4 teaspoon fresh-ground black pepper
2 cups (one 16-ounce jar) chunky tomato salsa
3/4 pound cavatappi
2 teaspoons lime juice or red-wine vinegar
1/4 cup chopped cilantro or parsley
6 ounces cheddar cheese, grated (about 1 1/2 cups)
lime wedges for serving (optional)

Steps:

1. In a large frying pan, heat the oil over moderately high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 3 minutes.
2. Stir in the chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add the salsa and simmer over low heat to allow the flavors to combine, about 10 minutes.
3. In a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook the cavatappi until just done, about 13 minutes.
4. Drain the pasta and toss it with the sauce, lime juice, cilantro, and 1 cup of the cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted. Sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup cheese and serve with wedges of lime if you like.