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Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad

Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad
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The Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish combining smoky grilled corn, hearty pasta, fresh vegetables, and a creamy tangy dressing. Perfect for any occasion, this salad is quick to make, customizable for dietary needs, and packed with fresh flavors, textures, and wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables & Herbs

  • 1 ½ cups fresh grilled or roasted corn kernels
  • 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
  • ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • ¼ cup diced green onions or red onions
  • Optional: diced bell peppers, black beans, jalapeños, or avocado slices (as desired)

Pasta

  • 2 cups cooked short pasta (rotini, shells, or penne), cooled

Dressing

  • ½ cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder or smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (if not used above)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Cheese & Extras

  • ½ cup crumbled feta or cotija cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Corn: Grill or roast fresh corn kernels until lightly charred to achieve the signature smoky street corn flavor. Once cooled, carefully cut the kernels off the cob.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Boil your chosen pasta in salted water according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool and stop the cooking process.
  3. Mix the Dressing: In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), fresh lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy with a tangy, mildly spicy flavor.
  4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooled pasta, grilled corn kernels, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped cilantro, diced onions, and crumbled cheese.
  5. Toss and Chill: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture, tossing thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh corn and herbs for the best flavor and texture.
  • Do not overcook the pasta; al dente pasta holds its shape and offers a satisfying bite.
  • Adjust lime juice and chili powder to customize the tanginess and spice level according to your preference.
  • Let the salad chill to allow flavors to blend fully before serving.
  • Lightly toast chili powder for deeper and richer flavor if desired.
  • Frozen corn can be used as a substitute; thaw and lightly sauté or roast to mimic fresh grilled flavor.
  • This salad is best served cold or at room temperature and does not reheat well.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
  • For a dairy-free or vegan version, substitute Greek yogurt and cheese with plant-based alternatives like avocado and nutritional yeast.

Nutrition

Keywords: Healthy, Street Corn, Pasta Salad, Grilled Corn, Summer Salad, Easy Recipe, Picnic Food, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free Option, Dairy-Free Option

Find it online: https://sophiespace.com/healthy-street-corn-pasta-salad/