Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad

Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy vibrant, fresh flavors, and nothing embodies the essence of summer like street corn. This variation of a classic pasta salad combines the sweet and smoky flavors of Mexican street corn with the satisfying essence of pasta. Ideal as a side dish for barbecues or a light lunch, this Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad is both nutritious and bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious salad, you will need the following ingredients:

  • Pasta: 8 oz of whole-grain or gluten-free pasta (such as penne or rotini)
  • Corn: 2 cups of fresh corn kernels (or 1 can of corn, drained and rinsed)
  • Red Bell Pepper: 1 medium, diced
  • Red Onion: 1 small, finely chopped
  • Cilantro: 1/4 cup, chopped
  • Avocado: 1 ripe, diced
  • Feta Cheese: 1/2 cup, crumbled (optional)

For the Dressing:

  • Greek Yogurt: 1/2 cup (for a healthier option)
  • Lime Juice: 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed
  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Cumin: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Salt and Pepper: to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

  1. If using fresh corn, grill or boil the corn on the cob until tender. Let it cool before cutting the kernels off the cob.
  2. If using canned corn, ensure it’s well-drained.

Step 3: Mix the Salad

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, corn, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, and avocado.
  2. If you’re adding feta cheese, include it here.

Step 4: Whisk the Dressing

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  2. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

  1. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is well coated.
  2. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  3. Serve chilled, garnished with extra cilantro if desired.

Health Benefits

This Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also loaded with nutrients:

  • Whole-Grain Pasta: Provides fiber and keeps you full longer.
  • Corn: A great source of antioxidants, vitamins C, and B-complex vitamins.
  • Avocado: Packed with healthy fats, avocados promote heart health and enhance nutrient absorption.
  • Greek Yogurt: A lower-fat alternative to mayonnaise, high in protein and probiotics.

Conclusion

The Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad is an excellent dish for any occasion, providing a delightful mix of flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy. Perfect for meal prep or a last-minute gathering, this recipe is not only easy to make but also guarantees to be a crowd-pleaser. With its fresh ingredients and vibrant colors, it’s a celebration of summer in every bite. Enjoy!