Street Corn Pasta Salad: A Savory and Colorful Summer Side Dish 🌽🍝☀️
1. Introduction
Discover the Deliciousness of the street corn pasta salad recipe — a vibrant, flavorful, and healthy summer side dish that combines the smoky sweetness of street corn with the hearty appeal of pasta. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a quick lunch, this easy pasta salad offers an exciting twist on traditional pasta salads by incorporating fresh corn, zesty lime, and a creamy, cheesy dressing. Whether you’re looking for a healthy summer side dish or an impressive crowd-pleaser, this recipe delivers on flavor and freshness.
2. Ingredients for Street Corn Pasta Salad
Produce:
- 2 cups cooked corn kernels (fresh or grilled)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 lime, juiced
Pantry & Dairy:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) cooked pasta (penne or rotini work great)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a healthier option
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon chili powder or smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Extras:
- Jalapeños for added heat
- Extra shredded cheese or crumbled queso fresco
- Hot sauce for a spicy kick
3. Preparing the Perfect street corn pasta salad recipe
Cook the Pasta:
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook your pasta al dente according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and keep the pasta from sticking. Setting aside.
Prepare the Corn:
If using fresh or grilled corn, cut the kernels off the cob. For extra smoky flavor, consider grilling the corn before removing the kernels.
Mix the Dressing:
In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, grated Parmesan cheese, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy. For a dairy-free variation, try adding a splash of olive oil and vinegar.
Combine All Ingredients:
Gently toss the cooked pasta with the corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and dressing. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra lime juice if needed. For more vibrant flavor, add some chopped jalapeños or hot sauce.
Serve:
Best enjoyed immediately or chilled for 30 minutes. Garnish with additional cilantro and cheese for an appetizing presentation. This easy pasta salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or seafood, making it an ideal healthy summer side dish.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Street Corn Pasta Salad
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain freshness, stir in a little extra lime juice or a splash of olive oil before serving leftovers. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the dressing may change.
5. Serving Suggestions for a Refreshing Summer Meal
This street corn pasta salad is perfect as a stand-alone dish or as part of a larger barbecue spread. Pair it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or veggie skewers for a complete, healthy summer meal. For additional variety, try serving it with some crispy garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
6. FAQs about Street Corn Pasta Salad
Can I make this easy pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be prepared ahead of time. For the best texture, add the dressing just before serving to prevent the pasta from becoming soggy.
Is this healthy summer side dish suitable for vegans?
It can be made vegan by substituting mayonnaise or Greek yogurt with vegan mayo and omitting cheese or using vegan cheese options.
What variations can I try with this street corn pasta salad recipe?
Experiment with different vegetables like diced avocados, black beans, or roasted peppers. For added protein, include grilled chicken or crushed chickpeas. Check out more healthy meal ideas.
7. Conclusion
In conclusion, the street corn pasta salad provides a delightful way to enjoy fresh summer ingredients blended with creamy, cheesy goodness. This healthy summer side dish is easy to prepare, versatile, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for a quick easy pasta salad recipe, this dish will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and make this zesty summer recipe a staple in your culinary repertoire!
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Street Corn Pasta Salad: Healthy Summer Side Dish
Discover the vibrant and healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad, a perfect summer side dish that’s both flavorful and colorful. Combining smoky corn, fresh vegetables, and a creamy cheese dressing, this easy pasta salad is ideal for picnics, barbecues, or quick lunches. Packed with fresh ingredients and zesty flavors, it’s a nutritious addition to your summer menu.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked corn kernels (fresh or grilled)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 lime, juiced
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) cooked pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon chili powder or smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Jalapeños (optional, for heat)
- Extra shredded cheese or crumbled queso fresco (optional)
- Hot sauce (optional, for spice)
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta al dente according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside.
- If using fresh or grilled corn, cut the kernels off the cob or grill the corn beforehand for smoky flavor.
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Gently toss the cooked pasta with corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and the dressing. Adjust seasoning as needed, adding additional lime juice or spices.
- Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes. Garnish with extra cilantro and cheese if desired. Pair with grilled meats or seafood for a complete meal.
Notes
- Best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Add extra lime juice or a splash of olive oil before serving leftover for freshness.
- Avoid freezing as the texture of the dressing may change.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling, Tossing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280 Kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
