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+ servings
Corn Pasta Salad

Corn Pasta Salad: Creamy, Crispy, and Perfect for Summer!

A delightful Corn Pasta Salad, bursting with flavors and perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Orecchiette Pasta Fusilli or farfalle can work well too.
For the Salad
  • 1 cup Corn Kernels Cooked, fresh, frozen, or canned.
  • 1 Red Bell Pepper Diced, can substitute with green bell pepper.
  • 4 slices Bacon Cooked and sliced; can use turkey bacon.
  • Fresh Cilantro Chopped, parsley can be used as a substitute.
  • Salt and Pepper To taste.
For the Dressing
  • cup Basil Pesto Store-bought or homemade.
  • 3 tablespoon Greek Yogurt Can substitute with sour cream or a vegan alternative.
  • 2 tablespoon Mayonnaise A vegan mayo ensures an egg-free option.
  • 2 tablespoon Lime Juice Freshly squeezed, can substitute with lemon juice.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Mason jar or whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add 8 ounces of orecchiette pasta, stirring occasionally, and cook according to package instructions for about 10-12 minutes until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander, rinsing briefly with cold water, and set aside to cool.
  2. While the pasta cools, prepare the dressing. In a mason jar or mixing bowl, combine ⅓ cup of basil pesto, 3 tablespoons of Greek yogurt, and 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise. Squeeze in the juice of 2 tablespoons of fresh lime and mix until smooth and creamy.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with 1 cup of cooked corn kernels, 1 diced red bell pepper, and the sliced bacon from 4 cooked slices. Toss gently to distribute the ingredients.
  4. Drizzle the creamy pesto dressing over the pasta mixture and sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top. Fold the dressing into the salad until well combined.
  5. For optimal flavor, chill the salad in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes. Serve in individual bowls, either cold or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 5gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 5mgIron: 10mg

Notes

This salad is best enjoyed cold and can be made a day in advance for convenience.

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