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
Scale
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.
