The tantalizing aroma of grilled corn mingles with the refreshing scent of cilantro, creating an irresistible invitation to indulge in a bowl of Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad. delicious garlic cauliflower skillet This dish promises a burst of flavors and a delightful crunch that dances on your palate, making it the star of any summer gathering or cozy family dinner. healthy broccoli pasta dish crispy potato salad recipe. For more inspiration, check out this Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta recipe.
I remember the first time I served this vibrant pasta salad at a picnic. My friends dove into it like they were competing in an Olympic event, and the smiles on their faces were priceless. The combination of sweet corn, creamy avocado, and zesty lime turned a simple meal into a cherished memory filled with laughter and joy. For more inspiration, check out this Mexican Corn Chicken Soup recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Its flavor profile combines sweet, tangy, and savory elements that will satisfy any palate
- The colorful ingredients create an eye-catching dish that will impress guests at gatherings
- Versatile enough to serve as a side or a main dish, this salad fits any occasion beautifully
Sharing this dish always brings compliments from family and friends who can’t get enough of its fresh flavors.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pasta: Use whole grain or gluten-free pasta for added nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
- Grilled Corn: Freshly grilled corn brings out the sweetness; choose firm ears for the best results.
- Avocado: Opt for ripe avocados; they add creaminess and healthy fats that elevate the salad.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro enhances the salad with its bright flavor; feel free to adjust based on personal preference.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice provides a zesty kick that balances the richness of the avocado.
- Red Onion: Diced red onion adds crunch and sharpness; soak it in cold water if you want a milder flavor.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta cheese adds a salty touch; use vegan options if dairy-free.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of quality olive oil ties all the flavors together beautifully.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance every ingredient’s natural flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. flavorful lettuce wraps.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Pasta: Boil water in a large pot and add salt before cooking your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water for a refreshing touch.
Grill the Corn: While pasta cooks, grill corn on medium heat until kernels are charred, about 10 minutes. Rotate occasionally for even grilling; it’s the secret to enhancing sweetness.
Prepare Your Veggies: Dice avocados, finely chop red onion, and roughly chop cilantro while letting those enticing aromas fill your kitchen. Mix these fresh ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
Combine Everything!: Once cooled, toss pasta with grilled corn in the mixing bowl alongside diced veggies. Drizzle olive oil and squeeze fresh lime juice over everything for that zesty zing.
Add Feta & Seasonings: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over your creation along with salt and pepper to taste. Gently fold all ingredients together until well combined without mashing your precious avocado.
Serve & Enjoy!: Transfer your colorful salad into serving bowls or platters. Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to let those flavors meld perfectly together before serving at your next gathering!
Feel free to customize this dish by adding other ingredients like black beans or cherry tomatoes based on your preferences!
You Must Know
- This Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad is a summer favorite that bursts with freshness and flavor
- It’s perfect for picnics or quick lunches, offering a delightful crunch with every bite
- The vibrant colors and textures will make it the star of any potluck
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the pasta until al dente; then, grill the corn while prepping the dressing to save time.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for added crunch and flavor variations.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; no reheating needed—enjoy cold!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To make your Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad shine, consider using fresh herbs like cilantro or basil
- Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should remain firm
- Lastly, let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes to enhance all flavors!
Sharing this recipe with friends brought joy as they devoured every last bite, leaving me hopeful they’d return for more.
FAQ
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen corn works well; just thaw and drain before use.
How can I make this salad vegan?
Simply omit cheese or replace it with vegan alternatives for a delicious plant-based dish.
What’s the best pasta type for this recipe?
Short pasta shapes like rotini or fusilli hold dressing well and add texture.
Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines the sweetness of grilled corn with creamy avocado, zesty lime, and fresh cilantro. Perfect for summer gatherings or quick weeknight meals, this colorful salad is sure to impress your guests while offering a delightful crunch in every bite.
Ingredients
- 8 oz whole grain or gluten-free pasta
- 2 ears of grilled corn, kernels removed
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese (or vegan alternative)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Grill the corn over medium heat for about 10 minutes until charred. Remove kernels from the cob.
- In a large bowl, combine diced avocado, red onion, cilantro, and corn.
- Toss the cooled pasta into the mixing bowl with veggies. Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice.
- Add feta cheese and season with salt and pepper. Gently mix without mashing the avocado.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to meld flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approx. 240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Feel free to add black beans or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor. For a vegan version, skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days—no reheating needed.