Summer is here, and that means it’s time for vibrant, fresh meals that are as easy to prepare as they are delicious! I’m excited to share my Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad recipe with you. This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful blend of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. Perfect for those hot summer days, this pasta salad is one of my go-to easy pasta recipes that the whole family will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for 30-minute meals.
- Packed with fresh ingredients that scream summer.
- Perfect as a side dish for fajitas or as a light main course.
- Great for meal prep and can be enjoyed cold, making it one of the best cold meals for summer.
- Versatile enough to serve at summer gatherings or as a simple weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
To make this delicious Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 8 oz of your favorite pasta (I love using whole wheat or gluten-free)
- 2 cups of fresh corn (grilled or boiled)
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup of red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Now, let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful dish:
- Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool it down.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, fresh corn, cherry tomatoes, avocado, red onion, and cilantro.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine all the ingredients.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your pasta salad turns out perfectly:
- Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch.
- If you want a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder.
- This salad can be made a day in advance, making it a great option for late summer dinner ideas.
- For a creamy twist, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream to the dressing.
How to Serve
This Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad is incredibly versatile! Here are some serving suggestions:
- As a refreshing side for grilled meats or fish during your summer barbecues.
- Perfect for pool lunch ideas or picnics in the park.
- Serve it as a light main dish for a quick family dinner.
- It also makes a fantastic addition to any potluck or summer gathering, sure to impress your guests!
Make Ahead and Storage
This pasta salad is a great make-ahead option! Here’s how to store it:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- If you’re making it ahead of time, consider adding the avocado just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.
- This dish is also a great option for meal prep, making it easy to grab for quick family dinners throughout the week.
For more delicious meal ideas, check out my Healthy Chicken and Broccoli Chinese Takeout or try my Weight Watchers Burrito Bowls for a satisfying meal. And if you’re looking for something a bit different, don’t miss my Cabbage Soup Diet for a refreshing change!
Enjoy this Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad as part of your summer meals, and let the flavors transport you to a sunny day filled with laughter and joy. Happy cooking!
Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, corn, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cumin, and paprika.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately or chill before serving.