Description
A refreshing and nutritious Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad combining whole wheat pasta with sweet corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, fresh cilantro, and tangy feta cheese, all tossed in a zesty lime and chili-spiced dressing. This vibrant salad is perfect for a light lunch, picnic, or side dish and can be served chilled or at room temperature.
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
Cheese and Dressing
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional
- 1 avocado, diced
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Prepare the whole wheat pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop further cooking. Set aside.
- Prepare Corn: If using fresh corn, boil the cobs for about 5 minutes and then remove the kernels from the cob. For frozen corn, thaw and pat dry. For canned corn, drain thoroughly.
- Combine Main Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, corn kernels, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and chopped fresh cilantro.
- Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Toss Salad: Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Add Cheese and Optional Avocado: Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese. If using avocado, carefully mix it into the salad at this stage to avoid mashing.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning as needed by adding more lime juice, salt, or pepper according to preference.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Serve the pasta salad chilled or at room temperature for a fresh and tasty dish.
Notes
- Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrition.
- Fresh corn adds the best flavor, but frozen or canned works well for convenience.
- Adjust the chili powder and smoked paprika to your preferred spice level.
- Avocado is optional but adds a creamy texture and healthy fats.
- Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to enhance flavor melding; it can be made a few hours in advance.
- This salad is great for meal prep and holds up well for next-day enjoyment.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
