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Corn Pasta Salad

Creamy Corn Pasta Salad That Will Brighten Your Day

A vibrant Corn Pasta Salad that combines sweet corn, crispy bacon, and creamy pesto dressing, perfect for picnics and BBQs.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 ounces Orecchiette Pasta Feel free to use fusilli or farfalle as a substitute.
  • 1 cup Corn Kernels Use fresh kernels from 2 ears or canned/frozen.
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper Adds a pop of color; can be substituted.
  • 6 slices Bacon Replace with turkey bacon or omit for vegetarian.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro Can substitute with parsley or basil.
For the Creamy Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Basil Pesto Store-bought or homemade.
  • 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt Can be switched for sour cream or mayo.
  • 1/4 cup Mayonnaise Use more yogurt or vegan mayo as a lighter option.
  • 1 tablespoon Lime Juice Substitute with lemon juice if desired.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • mason jar
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 8 ounces of orecchiette pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually around 10-12 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  2. In a mason jar or mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of basil pesto, ½ cup of Greek yogurt, ¼ cup of mayonnaise, and the juice of one lime. Mix until smooth, adjusting thickness as needed.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, 1 cup of corn kernels, 1 diced red bell pepper, and 6 slices of cooked and crumbled bacon. Toss gently to combine.
  4. Drizzle the creamy dressing over the salad mixture and toss until everything is coated. Adjust dressing to taste.
  5. Transfer the salad into serving bowls and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve immediately or chill before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 12gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 5gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 80mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For best taste, add the dressing just before serving. This salad can be prepped up to 2 hours in advance.

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