Lunch

Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

Nothing says summer like a vibrant, fresh pasta salad! This Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad brings back memories of sunny days and outdoor gatherings. It’s easy to whip up, packed with flavor, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or just need a quick lunch, this salad is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad

  • Fast
  • Easy
  • Giftable
  • Crowd-pleasing

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces pasta (your choice, such as rotini or penne) – I love using a fun shape for added texture!
  • 2 cups corn (fresh, frozen, or canned) – Sweet corn adds a delightful crunch.
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced – This adds a pop of color and sweetness.
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped – For a bit of zing!
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped – A must for that fresh flavor.
  • 1 avocado, diced – Creamy goodness that ties it all together.
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese – Adds a salty, tangy kick.
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt – A healthy, creamy dressing base.
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice – Brightens up the dish!
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder – For a little warmth and spice.
  • Salt and pepper to taste – Always taste as you go!

How to Make Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool. I usually rinse it with cold water to speed up the cooling process.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the corn, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, avocado, and feta cheese. The colors are so vibrant!
  3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This dressing is creamy and zesty!
  4. Add the cooled pasta to the vegetable mixture and pour the dressing over the top. Toss gently to combine, being careful not to mash the avocado.
  5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Substitutions & Additions

Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand. Here are some ideas:

  • Try using quinoa instead of pasta for a gluten-free option.
  • Swap the feta for goat cheese or omit it for a dairy-free version.
  • Add some black beans for extra protein and fiber.
  • For a spicy kick, throw in some jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

Tips for Success

Here are some tips to ensure your pasta salad turns out perfectly:

  • Make sure your pasta is completely cooled before mixing; this prevents the avocado from browning too quickly.
  • Adjust the lime juice and chili powder according to your taste preferences.
  • This salad can be made ahead of time, just add the avocado just before serving to keep it fresh.

How to Store Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for about 2-3 days. Just a quick note: the avocado may brown a little, but it will still taste great! You can always add a fresh diced avocado before serving if you like.

FAQs

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the feta cheese and use a plant-based yogurt for the dressing.

Is this pasta salad good for meal prep?

Absolutely! It’s perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for a quick grab-and-go lunch.

Can I use different vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to add or substitute with your favorite vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, or even zucchini.

For more delicious recipes, check out easy homemade strawberry cheesecake donuts or easy rotisserie chicken tostadas for treats you will love!

If you’re looking for more inspiration, be sure to follow us on Pinterest!

Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad

Nothing says summer like a vibrant, fresh pasta salad! This Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad brings back memories of sunny days and outdoor gatherings. It’s easy to whip up, packed with flavor, and perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Mexican-Inspired

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Salad
  • 8 oz pasta your choice, such as rotini or penne
  • 2 cups corn fresh, frozen, or canned
  • 1 unit red bell pepper diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1 unit avocado diced
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tsp chili powder

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Small Bowl

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool.
  2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the corn, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, avocado, and feta cheese.
  3. Step 3: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Step 4: Add the cooled pasta to the vegetable mixture and pour the dressing over the top. Toss gently to combine.
  5. Step 5: Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for about 2-3 days.

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