Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad: A Delicious and Nutritious Recipe

Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad

Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on a classic favorite that brings the vibrant flavors of summer right to your table. This dish is inspired by the beloved Mexican street corn, known as elote, which features grilled corn slathered in creamy sauces and topped with zesty spices. By transforming this iconic street food into a pasta salad, we create a dish that is not only refreshing but also packed with nutrients.

People adore this Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad for its perfect balance of taste and texture. The sweetness of the corn pairs beautifully with the creamy dressing, while the pasta adds a satisfying chewiness. It’s a convenient dish that can be prepared in advance, making it ideal for picnics, barbecues, or even a quick weeknight dinner. With its colorful ingredients and bold flavors, this salad is sure to impress your family and friends, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

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Ingredients:

• 8 ounces of whole wheat pasta (fusilli or penne works well)
• 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 crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped
• 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 will help 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 water. This will help stop the cooking process once the pasta is done.
4. When the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and immediately transfer it to the ice bath. This will keep the pasta from becoming mushy and will help it stay firm.
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, prepare the corn. If using fresh corn, you can either boil it for about 5 minutes or grill it for a smoky flavor. If you choose to grill, simply husk the corn and place it on a preheated grill for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally until charred.
2. Once the corn is cooked, let it cool slightly, then cut the kernels off the cob and place them in a large mixing bowl.
3. Next, add the diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, and diced avocado to the bowl with the corn.
4. Gently toss the vegetables together to combine them evenly.

Making the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This dressing will add a zesty flavor to the salad.
2. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more lime juice for acidity or more chili powder for heat, depending on your preference.

Assembling the Salad

1. In the large mixing bowl with the corn and vegetables, add the cooled pasta. Gently fold the pasta into the vegetable mixture, being careful not to mash the avocado.
2. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss everything together until well combined. Make sure the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
3. Finally, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped cilantro over the top of the salad. Give it one last gentle toss to incorporate the cheese and herbs.

Chilling and Serving

1. Cover the pasta salad with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
2. Before serving, give the salad a good stir to redistribute the dressing and ingredients. Taste again and adjust the seasoning if needed.
3. Serve the Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad chilled or at room temperature. It makes a perfect side dish for barbecues, picnics, or a light lunch.

Storage Tips

1. This pasta salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, the avocado may brown slightly, so it’s best to add it fresh if you plan to make it ahead of time.
2. If you have leftovers, consider adding more fresh ingredients like diced avocado or cherry tomatoes before serving to refresh the salad.

Variations

Conclusion:

In conclusion, this Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delightful and nutritious dish that brings the vibrant flavors of summer right to your table. With its combination of fresh corn, colorful vegetables, and a zesty dressing, it’s not just a feast for the eyes but also a wholesome option that everyone will love. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a side dish for a barbecue, or a refreshing meal prep option, this pasta salad checks all the boxes. It’s a must-try recipe that’s sure to impress your family and friends!

One of the best things about this Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. If you’re a fan of spice, toss in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder to give it an extra kick. You can also experiment with different types of pasta, such as whole wheat or gluten-free options, to make it even healthier. And don’t forget to play around with the vegetables; bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even avocado can add a delightful twist to the dish.

When it comes to serving suggestions, this Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad shines as a standalone dish, but it also pairs beautifully with grilled meats or fish. It’s perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or as a side at your next family gathering. You can serve it chilled or at room temperature, making it an ideal option for meal prep. Just make sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and it will keep well for a few days, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week.

I encourage you to give this Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad a try! It’s not only easy to make but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Once you’ve whipped it up, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you add any unique ingredients or variations? How did your family and friends react? Sharing your culinary adventures not only inspires others but also helps build a community of food lovers who appreciate healthy and delicious meals. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! I can’t wait to see how your version of this Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad turns out!