Cavatappi

By Matt Fisher
Servings: Serves 4

Ingredients

• Oil for saute
• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1 1/2 tsp. chili powder
• salt and pepper to taste (1-2 tsp)
• 2 cups good quality chunky tomato salsa
• 3/4 lb. cavatappi pasta (or some other tubular pasta)
• 2 tsp. lime juice or red wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro or parsley
• about 1 1/2 cups (6 oz.) grated cheddar cheese
• lime wedges for serving

Preparation

In large frying pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 3 minutes. Stir in the chili powder, salt and pepper. Add the salsa and simmer over low heat to combine, about 10 minutes. Cook pasta to al dente, drain it and toss it with the sauce, lime juice, cilantro and 1 cup of cheese. Stir until cheese is melted. Sprinkle with remaining cheese and serve with lime wedges if you like.