Healthy Summer Street Corn Pasta Salad

© Original Recipe By Serena’s Delights ©

Healthy Summer Street Corn Pasta Salad 🌽🍝☀️

1. Introduction

Get ready to indulge in a vibrant, flavorful, and nutritious summer pasta salad that celebrates the beloved street corn flavors. This healthy variation on classic street corn combines pasta, fresh vegetables, and a zesty, creamy dressing, making it the perfect dish for hot summer days, picnics, or potlucks. Packed with taste and loaded with healthy ingredients, this summer pasta salad is sure to become a favorite. For a seamless cooking experience, consider using the Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer to prepare some of the toppings or sides!

To elevate your kitchen game even further, explore high-quality tools like the T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set or the Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo. These tools make cooking efficient and fun!

2. Ingredients for Healthy Summer Street Corn Pasta Salad

• 12 oz (340 g) whole wheat or gluten-free pasta
• 1 cup fresh corn kernels (grilled or boiled)
li>1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta or cotija cheese
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a healthier twist
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: sliced jalapeños or hot sauce for extra spice

3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Healthy Summer Street Corn Pasta Salad

Cooking the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta down. Set aside.

Preparing the Corn

If using fresh corn, grill the corn until charred and tender, then cut the kernels off the cob. Alternatively, boil or microwave frozen corn until heated through. For an extra smoky flavor, grilling the corn adds an authentic street corn taste.

Making the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste. This tangy, spicy dressing ties all the elements of the salad together.

Combining the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, corn kernels, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently to coat evenly. Sprinkle with crumbled feta or cotija cheese for added flavor and creaminess.

Serving

Serve immediately for the freshest taste or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Garnish with extra cilantro or hot sauce if desired.

4. Storage Tips for Your Summer Pasta Salad

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Since this summer pasta salad contains fresh vegetables and dairy, it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a day or two for optimal flavor and freshness.

To keep the salad lively, add a splash of lime juice or fresh herbs before serving if it has been refrigerated for a day.

5. Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This healthy summer street corn pasta salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak. It also makes a fantastic addition to barbecues, picnics, or beach outings. For a more complete meal, try serving it alongside a side of garlic bread or roasted vegetables.

Looking for more summer recipes? Check out our Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps for a tasty dinner option.

6. Tips and Variations for the Perfect Summer Pasta Salad

• Vegetarian and vegan options: Use dairy-free mayonnaise or tahini dressing and omit cheese.
• Adding protein: Toss in grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp for added protein and sustenance.
• Adjust spice levels: Incorporate more hot sauce or sliced jalapeños for extra heat.
• Using different pasta shapes: Rotini, penne, or fusilli work well for this salad.

7. Frequently Asked Questions about Summer Pasta Salad

Can I prepare this summer pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the salad a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent the pasta from becoming soggy.

Can I Make this healthy street corn pasta salad vegetarian?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegetarian. For vegan options, substitute mayonnaise with a plant-based dressing and omit cheese.

What are good substitutions for dairy cheese?

You can replace cheese with nutritional yeast or omit it entirely for a dairy-free version.

How long does it take to prepare this summer pasta salad?

It takes approximately 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick, healthy meal or side dish.

8. Essential Kitchen Tools for Making the Best Summer Pasta Salad

• Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: Great for grilling or roasting corn and vegetables with ease.
• T-fal 14-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set: Ensures perfect cooking of pasta and vegetables without sticking.
• Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer: Ideal for grilling corn or preparing quick toppings for your pasta salad.

9. Conclusion

Enjoy the sunshine and vibrant flavors of this healthy summer street corn pasta salad. It combines the best of summer ingredients, fresh herbs, and a zesty dressing to create a nourishing and delightful dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a picnic, a quick weeknight dinner, or a summer gathering, this summer pasta salad will impress everyone at your table. Explore more fresh recipes and wellness tips on our website, and don’t forget to equip your kitchen with top-notch tools like the Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer for an enhanced cooking experience!

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