Habanero Sweet Potato Pasta Recipe

Introduction

This Habanero Sweet Potato Pasta combines a delightful balance of sweet and spicy flavors for a unique twist on your usual pasta dish. Creamy sweet potatoes and a touch of habanero heat come together in a vibrant tomato sauce, perfect for anyone looking to spice up dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 cups Rotini Pasta
• 1 Sweet Potato
• 1 can Diced Tomatoes
• 1 cup Corn
• 10 Fresh Basil Leaves
• 5 cloves Garlic
• 1 Habanero Pepper
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and the whole sweet potato. Cook the pasta according to package instructions, about 8 minutes, until tender. Meanwhile, cook the sweet potato until it becomes soft, stirring occasionally to cook evenly. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large high-sided pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic cloves, habanero pepper, and fresh basil leaves. Cook and stir until the garlic turns golden brown, about 1 to 2 minutes, careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Step 3: Add the corn, diced tomatoes with their liquid, and salt to the pan. Let the mixture simmer until half of the liquid evaporates, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes. Once thickened, turn the heat off.
4. Step 4: Remove the sweet potato from its skin, cut into chunks, and add it along with the drained pasta into the pan. Stir well to coat everything evenly in the tomato sauce.
5. Step 5: Serve the pasta immediately while warm and enjoy the sweet and spicy flavors melding together.

Tips & Variations

• If you prefer less heat, remove the seeds from the habanero or substitute with a milder chili pepper.
• For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of coconut milk or cream after simmering the sauce.
• Freshly grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of toasted nuts can add a nice texture contrast.

Storage

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat with a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce and maintain moisture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle works well with this sauce.

What if I don’t have fresh basil?

Dried basil can be used, but add it earlier during the simmering step to release its flavor. Alternatively, fresh parsley or oregano can substitute for a different herbal note.

Habanero Sweet Potato Pasta Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 76 reviews

• Author: Hailey
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A vibrant and spicy Habanero Sweet Potato Pasta combining tender rotini pasta with soft sweet potato chunks, fresh basil, garlic, and a tomato-based sauce infused with habanero heat and sweet corn. This flavorful dish balances spicy, sweet, and savory elements for a satisfying vegetarian meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta and Vegetables

• 2 cups Rotini Pasta
• 1 medium Sweet Potato
• 1 cup Corn kernels

Sauce and Flavorings

• 1 can (14.5 oz) Diced Tomatoes
• 10 Fresh Basil Leaves
• 5 cloves Garlic
• 1 Habanero Pepper
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt

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Instructions

1. Cook Pasta and Sweet Potato: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and peeled, diced sweet potato. Boil them together, stirring occasionally, for about 8 minutes or until the pasta is al dente and the sweet potato is tender.
2. Drain Pasta and Sweet Potato: Once cooked, carefully drain the pasta and sweet potato pieces, setting them aside while you prepare the sauce.
3. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large, high-sided pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic cloves, chopped habanero pepper, and basil leaves. Stir constantly and cook until the garlic turns golden brown and fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes. Be cautious with the habanero as it is very spicy.
4. Add Corn and Tomatoes: Pour in the cup of corn kernels and the entire can of diced tomatoes, including the liquid. Season with salt and allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce reduces and thickens slightly as half of the liquid evaporates. Then turn off the heat.
5. Combine Pasta, Sweet Potato, and Sauce: Add the drained rotini pasta and sweet potato chunks into the skillet with the simmered tomato sauce. Toss everything well to combine, ensuring the pasta and sweet potatoes are evenly coated with the flavorful sauce.
6. Serve: Serve the pasta immediately while hot, garnished with additional fresh basil if desired.

Notes

• Adjust the amount of habanero pepper to control the heat level in this dish.
• Use fresh sweet potato for the best texture and sweetness.
• For a milder version, substitute habanero with a milder chili or omit entirely.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To enhance the dish, sprinkle with grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast before serving (optional).

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Fusion

Keywords: Habanero pasta, sweet potato pasta, spicy pasta, vegetarian pasta recipe, easy pasta dinner, tomato pasta sauce, rotini pasta dish