If you’re hunting for a vibrant, flavorful dish that delivers a perfect balance of freshness and comfort, this Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe is your new best friend. It’s a wonderful medley of hearty whole wheat pasta, sweet corn, zesty lime, and a subtle kick of chili powder, all finished with creamy feta and the bright crunch of fresh veggies. The layers of texture and bold flavors come together beautifully, making it a star side or even a satisfying main for warm days when you want something light yet nourishing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe has its own starring role to play. From the chewy whole wheat pasta providing a wholesome base, to the sweet corn adding bursts of summer, and the fresh cilantro lending a lively aroma, each piece builds the salad’s colorful and irresistible personality.
- Whole wheat pasta (8 ounces): Choosing whole wheat adds hearty fiber and a nutty flavor that lifts the dish beyond ordinary pasta salads.
- Corn kernels (2 cups): Whether fresh, frozen, or canned, corn contributes sweetness and satisfying crunch that’s essential for that street-corn vibe.
- Cherry tomatoes, halved (1 cup): These little bursts of juicy tang brighten every bite and add vibrant red contrast.
- Red onion, finely chopped (1/2 cup): A sharp, savory note that balances the sweetness and adds some bite.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (1/4 cup): For that unmistakable fresh, citrusy herb flavor that brings the salad to life.
- Feta cheese, crumbled (1/2 cup): Salty and creamy, feta adds richness and a delightful crumbly texture.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): A drizzle of good-quality olive oil ties all the flavors together and creates a luscious dressing base.
- Lime juice (juice of 2 limes): The star of the dressing, providing zing and brightness that awakens the entire dish.
- Chili powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a smoky heat kick without overwhelming the palate.
- Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Brings warm smokiness that coaxes out the sweetness of the corn.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to elevate the natural flavors of each component.
- Optional: Avocado, diced (1): For extra creaminess and buttery texture that pairs wonderfully with the tangy lime and spicy chili powder.
How to Make Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by preparing the whole wheat pasta according to the package instructions until it’s just al dente, with a slight firmness to the bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad’s refreshing vibe. Setting it aside allows you to focus on the other fresh ingredients.
Step 2: Prepare the Corn
If you’re using fresh corn, boiling the cob for about 5 minutes softens the kernels just right. After boiling, slice the kernels off the cob carefully. For frozen corn, simply thaw and pat dry to remove excess moisture, and canned corn should be well drained. This preparation ensures your salad won’t become soggy and keeps each bite crisp and sweet.
Step 3: Combine the Vegetables and Pasta
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooked pasta, corn kernels, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and freshly chopped cilantro. This colorful mixture is already starting to look and smell amazing, and it’s the base for all the delicious flavors to come.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, freshly squeezed lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until fully combined. This dressing is where the magic happens, providing that tangy, smoky, slightly spicy punch that defines this Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe.
Step 5: Toss the Salad
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss thoroughly, making sure every bit is coated in that vibrant sauce. A good toss ensures each forkful delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, from zesty lime to smoky paprika.
Step 6: Add the Feta and Avocado
Gently fold in the crumbled feta, letting it melt slightly into the warm components, adding creamy saltiness. If you’re using avocado, carefully mix in the diced pieces now to avoid mashing, adding a luscious creaminess that complements the salad beautifully.
Step 7: Final Taste and Chill
Give the salad a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—with an extra squeeze of lime or a pinch of salt and pepper. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen. This rest time is key to unlocking the full potential of this salad.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature for the best texture and flavor experience. This hearty yet fresh dish is ready to delight your taste buds!
How to Serve Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Refreshing garnishes take this salad from great to unforgettable. Sprinkle extra chopped cilantro or a handful of toasted pepitas for crunch. A light dusting of chili powder on top adds a visual pop and an extra hint of spice that pairs beautifully with its smoky background.
Side Dishes
This salad shines alongside grilled chicken or fish to keep things light but satisfying, or pair it with some spicy black bean burgers for a vibrant, veggie-forward meal. Its zesty tang and smoky notes also complement smoky barbecue dishes wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the salad in colorful bowls or individual glass jars for parties and picnics, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious. For a fun twist, spoon it into hollowed-out bell peppers or mini sweet potatoes to create edible bowls packed with flavor and nutrition.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the avocado separate if you want to prevent browning, adding it fresh just before serving.
Freezing
We don’t recommend freezing this salad, as fresh vegetables, pasta, and cheese don’t hold texture or flavor well after freezing and thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
This pasta salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. If you prefer it slightly warmer, allow it to sit out for 10-15 minutes before eating, but avoid microwaving to preserve its vibrant texture.
FAQs
Can I use regular pasta instead of whole wheat?
Absolutely! Regular pasta works fine, though whole wheat adds extra fiber and a nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
What type of corn works best in this recipe?
Fresh corn is ideal for the best sweetness and texture, but frozen or canned corn can be convenient substitutes—just ensure they’re well thawed or drained.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s great for meal prep and keeps well refrigerated for a few days. Just add avocado right before eating to keep it fresh and creamy.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, simply omit the feta or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative, and ensure your chili powder and spices don’t contain animal-derived additives.
How spicy is the salad?
The chili powder adds a gentle warmth without overwhelming heat, but you can adjust the amount to suit your spice preference or leave it out for a milder flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe is one of those dishes that can brighten even the busiest day with its bold flavors and satisfying textures. It’s easy to make, wonderfully fresh, and a perfect way to celebrate seasonal produce or bring a crowd-pleasing side to any table. Give it a try—you’re going to love how it feels like a little fiesta in every bite!
Print
Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad combines whole wheat pasta with sweet corn, fresh cherry tomatoes, red onion, and a tangy lime-chili dressing. Crumbled feta cheese adds a creamy touch, while optional avocado boosts creaminess and nutrition. This vibrant, refreshing salad is perfect for a light lunch or a colorful side dish, packed with flavors inspired by street corn and easy to prepare in under an hour.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 8 ounces whole wheat pasta (rotini, penne, or your choice)
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Optional: 1 avocado, diced
Cheese
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Dressing
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
- Prepare the corn: If using fresh corn, boil the ears for about 5 minutes, then slice the kernels off the cob. For frozen corn, thaw completely and pat dry. For canned corn, drain thoroughly.
- Combine main ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, corn kernels, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and chopped cilantro. Toss gently to combine.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, freshly squeezed lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well blended.
- Toss salad with dressing: Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss carefully to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the flavorful dressing.
- Add cheese and optional avocado: Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese. If using avocado, incorporate it now with a gentle mix to avoid mashing.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning as needed by adding more lime juice, salt, or pepper according to your preference.
- Chill to meld flavors: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve: Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing and healthy dish.
Notes
- Using whole wheat pasta increases fiber content and adds a nutty flavor profile.
- Fresh corn gives the best texture and sweetness, but frozen or canned work well for convenience.
- Be careful when folding in avocado to keep pieces intact and creamy.
- This salad can be made a day ahead; just add avocado right before serving to avoid browning.
- For a vegan version, omit feta cheese or substitute with a plant-based alternative.
- Adjust chili powder and smoked paprika quantities to control the spice level to your taste.
- Serve as a side dish or a light main course for a nutritious meal.
