Southwestern Pasta Salad With Avocado-Serrano Dressing

• penne pasta↗12 ounces
• serrano chili↗1

  seeded

• garlic clove↗1

  large

• avocados↗2

  ripe

• fresh lime juice↗3 tablespoons
• chili powder↗1⁄2 teaspoon
• extra virgin olive oil↗1⁄4 cup
• salt↗
• pinto beans↗1 can

  drained and rinsed

• jicama↗1

  small, shredded

• red onion↗1

  small, chopped

• cherry tomatoes↗1 cup

  halved

• chopped fresh parsley or cilantro1⁄4 cup
• salad greens↗

  for serving

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Cook the penne in salted boiling water, stirring occasionally, until it is al dente, about 10 minutes.

2. 2

   While the pasta is cooking, make the dressing: Combine the chile and garlic in a food processor. Halve and pit 1 of the avocados, scoop out the flesh with a spoon and add it to the processor. Add the lime juice and chile powder and process until smooth. Add the olive oil and salt to taste. Process until smooth.

3. 3

   After the pasta is cooked, drain and rinse under cool water, then place in a large bowl. Add the beans, jicama, onion, tomatoes and parsley. Peel, halve and dice the remaining avocado and add it to the pasta salad. Pour on the dressing and toss gently to combine. Serve on salad greens.