Delicious & Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe
As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to meal prep. That’s why I’m excited to share my Delicious & Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe. This vibrant dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a quick solution for those summer gatherings. With fresh ingredients and a burst of flavor, it’s sure to impress your loved ones. Plus, it’s nutritious, making it a guilt-free addition to your table. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s perfect for any occasion!
Why You’ll Love This Delicious & Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe
This Delicious & Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe is a lifesaver for busy days. It comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of sweet corn, crunchy veggies, and creamy dressing creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, so you can feel good about serving it to your family!
Ingredients for Delicious & Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Pasta: Any shape works, but I love using rotini for its ability to hold onto the dressing.
- Corn: Fresh corn is ideal, but frozen corn is a great time-saver and just as tasty.
- Red bell pepper: Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant color to the salad.
- Red onion: Provides a zesty bite; you can soak it in water to mellow the flavor if desired.
- Cilantro: This herb brings a fresh, bright flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
- Feta cheese: Crumbled feta adds a creamy, salty element; feel free to swap it for a dairy-free alternative.
- Mayonnaise: The base of the dressing; you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Lime juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens the flavors and adds a tangy kick.
- Chili powder: A sprinkle of this spice gives the salad a subtle warmth; adjust to your taste.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning; always taste as you go!
For those who want to get creative, consider adding ingredients like avocado or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Delicious & Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling like a hot spring, add your pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Remember, you want it firm enough to hold up in the salad. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This little trick keeps it from getting mushy!
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
While the pasta is cooking, it’s time to chop! Dice the red bell pepper and red onion into small pieces. If you’re not a fan of raw onion’s bite, soak the diced onion in cold water for a few minutes. This will mellow its flavor. Next, grab your corn. If you’re using fresh corn, cut the kernels off the cob. If frozen, just measure out two cups and let them thaw. Fresh or frozen, they both work beautifully in this Delicious & Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the corn, diced red bell pepper, red onion, and chopped cilantro. Then, add the cooled pasta to this colorful mix. I love how vibrant this salad looks at this stage! It’s like a summer garden in a bowl. Gently toss everything together, ensuring the veggies and pasta are well mixed. This is where the magic begins!
Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This dressing is creamy with a zesty kick that ties everything together. If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt works wonders here too. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if needed. A little more lime juice can brighten it up even more!
Step 5: Toss and Serve
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss everything together until it’s evenly coated. This is the moment when all those flavors come together in harmony. Before serving, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top for that creamy finish. You can serve it immediately, but I recommend letting it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Enjoy your Delicious & Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad at your next gathering!
Tips for Success
- Always taste as you go! Adjust seasoning to your preference.
- For extra crunch, add some chopped nuts or seeds.
- Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Use leftover grilled corn for a smoky flavor boost.
- Mix in some black beans for added protein and texture.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot: For boiling pasta; a deep skillet works too.
- Colander: To drain the pasta; a slotted spoon can be a quick alternative.
- Mixing bowls: Use any size; a large bowl is ideal for tossing.
- Whisk: For mixing the dressing; a fork can do the job in a pinch.
Variations of Delicious & Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe
- Vegan Delight: Swap the mayonnaise for a plant-based alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of feta for a cheesy flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for an extra kick of heat.
- Protein Boost: Mix in cooked chicken, shrimp, or black beans for a heartier salad that’s perfect as a main dish.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like parsley or basil for a unique twist on flavor.
- Grilled Goodness: Use grilled corn for a smoky flavor that elevates the entire dish.
Serving Suggestions for Delicious & Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe
- Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
- Serve alongside tortilla chips and salsa for a fun appetizer.
- Complement with a refreshing lemonade or iced tea.
- Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges for a vibrant presentation.
FAQs about Delicious & Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe
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Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making this Delicious & Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute. You can also use a plant-based mayonnaise for a vegan version of this salad.
How long will leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just give it a good stir before serving again!
Can I add protein to this salad?
Definitely! Adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even black beans can turn this salad into a heartier meal. It’s a great way to make it more filling!
Is this salad gluten-free?
To make this Delicious & Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free!
Summarizing the Joy of Delicious & Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe
There’s something truly special about sharing a meal that brings everyone together. My Delicious & Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe does just that! It’s not just a dish; it’s a celebration of fresh flavors and vibrant colors. Each bite is a reminder of sunny days and laughter-filled gatherings. Whether you’re serving it at a picnic or enjoying it as a quick weeknight dinner, this salad is sure to bring smiles. Plus, knowing it’s nutritious makes it even better. So, gather your loved ones and enjoy the joy this salad brings to your table!
Print
Delicious & Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe Revealed!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and nutritious pasta salad featuring street corn, perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 cups corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the corn, red bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.
- Add the cooled pasta to the vegetable mixture.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
- Garnish with crumbled feta cheese before serving.
Notes
- For a vegan option, substitute mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative.
- This salad can be made a day in advance for better flavor.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like avocado or cherry tomatoes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg