Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad: A Delicious and Nutritious Recipe for Summer Gatherings

Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on a classic summer favorite that brings the vibrant flavors of street corn right to your table. This dish is not only visually appealing with its colorful ingredients, but it also offers a refreshing taste that is perfect for warm weather gatherings. Originating from the bustling streets of Mexico, elote, or street corn, has become a beloved snack, and now we can enjoy its essence in a pasta salad that is both nutritious and satisfying.

People love Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad for its incredible combination of textures and flavors. The creamy dressing, crunchy corn, and tender pasta create a harmonious blend that is hard to resist. Plus, it’s a convenient dish that can be prepared ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for picnics, barbecues, or even a quick weeknight dinner. Join me as we explore this delicious recipe that not only celebrates the essence of street corn but also promotes a healthier lifestyle!

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces of whole wheat pasta (fusilli or penne works great)
• 2 cups of fresh corn kernels (about 4 ears of corn)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/2 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• 1 lime, juiced
• 3 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Pasta

1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt helps to flavor the pasta as it cooks.
2. Once the water is boiling, add the whole wheat pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
3. While the pasta is cooking, prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with ice and cold water. This will help stop the cooking process once the pasta is done.
4. When the pasta is ready, drain it in a colander and immediately transfer it to the ice bath. This will keep it from becoming mushy and help it maintain its shape.
5. Let the pasta sit in the ice bath for about 5 minutes, then drain it again and set it aside to cool completely.

Preparing the Corn and Vegetables

1. While the pasta is cooling, it’s time to prepare the corn. If you’re using fresh corn, carefully cut the kernels off the cob. You can also use frozen corn; just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the salad.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the corn kernels and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are slightly charred and tender. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the salad.
3. Remove the skillet from heat and let the corn cool for a few minutes.
4. Next, chop the red bell pepper, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. I like to make sure the pieces are roughly the same size for even distribution in the salad.
5. Once the corn has cooled, combine it with the diced bell pepper, chopped onion, and halved cherry tomatoes in a large mixing bowl.

Making the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This dressing is simple but packs a punch of flavor!
2. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you like a bit more heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.

Assembling the Salad

1. In the large bowl with the corn and vegetables, add the cooled pasta. Gently toss everything together to combine.
2. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss again until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
3. Now, add the diced avocado and chopped cilantro. Be gentle when mixing to avoid mashing the avocado.
4. If you’re using feta cheese, sprinkle it on top and give the salad one last gentle toss.
5. Cover the salad with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

1. When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a good stir. You might want to add a little more lime juice or olive oil if it seems dry.
2. This salad is perfect as a side dish for grilled meats or as a light lunch on its own. It’s also great for potlucks or picnics!
3. For an extra kick, consider garnishing with additional cilantro or a sprinkle of chili powder on top before serving.

Storage Tips

1. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will keep well for about 3 days.
2. Keep in mind that the avocado may brown slightly, but it will still taste delicious!
3. To refresh the salad before serving leftovers, you can add a splash of lime juice and a drizzle of olive oil to revive the flavors.

This Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad is not only vibrant and colorful but also packed with nutrients and flavor. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy fresh summer produce while keeping things light and healthy. Enjoy making this dish, and I hope it becomes a favorite in your household!

Conclusion:

In summary, this Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their meal game while keeping things nutritious and delicious. The combination of sweet corn, fresh herbs, and a zesty dressing creates a vibrant dish that’s perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or even a quick weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily swap out the pasta for a gluten-free option, add in some grilled chicken for extra protein, or toss in your favorite veggies to make it your own. I encourage you to give this recipe a go and experience the delightful flavors for yourself. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a main course, I promise it will be a hit with family and friends. Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you try—I’d love to hear how you make this Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad your own! Happy cooking! Print

June 19, 2025 by Melissa