Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad

Name: Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta; 2 cups sweet corn (fresh or frozen); 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; Juice of 1 lime; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Experience the vibrant taste of summer all year round with this Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad. Bursting with sweet corn, fresh herbs, and zesty lime, this delightful dish is a perfect mix of flavors and textures. It's a light yet satisfying option for picnics, barbecues, or as a refreshing side dish at your next gathering. This recipe combines the classic street corn experience into a delicious pasta salad that everyone will love!

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2025-12-08T12:35:41.768Z

Nutritional Benefits of Street Corn Pasta Salad

This Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad offers a plethora of nutritional benefits, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious individuals. Sweet corn is not only delicious but also rich in fiber, which aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness. This can be particularly advantageous for those looking to maintain a healthy weight. The combination of fresh vegetables adds an array of vitamins and minerals, enhancing the overall nutritional profile of the dish.

Additionally, the use of whole grain or legume-based pasta can elevate the fiber and protein content of the salad, providing sustained energy throughout the day. Ingredients like cilantro and red onion not only amplify flavor but also offer antioxidants, contributing to overall health. This dish presents an appealing and nutritious way to enjoy the essence of summer flavors while fueling the body with essential nutrients.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a picnic in the park, or a casual family gathering, this Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad fits seamlessly into any occasion. Its vibrant colors and refreshing taste make it an eye-catching centerpiece on any table. Moreover, its versatility allows it to serve as both a main course or a delightful side dish alongside grilled meats or other salads.

The easy preparation and make-ahead nature of this salad also make it a stress-free option for busy hosts. You can prepare it in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully for heightened taste. With its light yet fulfilling characteristics, this dish is sure to satisfy guests of all ages, making it a hit every time it's served.

Customize Your Salad

One of the best attributes of this Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad is its adaptability. Feel free to customize it according to your taste preferences or dietary needs. For those who prefer a spicier kick, adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder can elevate the flavor profile. Alternatively, if you’re looking to add more proteins, consider incorporating grilled chicken, black beans, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.

Additionally, you can play around with different herbs or cheese variations. Substituting feta with goat cheese or omitting it entirely caters to those who prefer a dairy-free option. The joy of this salad lies in its flexibility, allowing every individual to craft a version that suits their personal taste while enjoying the wholesome benefits it has to offer.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad

8 oz pasta
2 cups sweet corn (fresh or frozen)
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Juice of 1 lime
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Prepare the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sweet corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and feta cheese.

Dress the Salad

In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.

Serve

Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes for the flavors to meld.

Serving Suggestions

This Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad can be paired beautifully with various dishes. Consider serving it alongside grilled meats such as chicken or steak for a balanced meal, or use it as a filling side at your next taco night. The zesty lime dressing enhances the overall flavor, making it a perfect match for spicy or smoky entrees.

For a lighter option, enjoy it on its own or accompany it with a flavor-packed dip like guacamole or salsa. Adding a crunchy element, like tortilla chips on the side, is another way to enhance the experience. The refreshing nature of this salad makes it a great appetizer for warm-weather gatherings or paired with refreshing beverages like iced tea or lemonade.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers of this Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad, storing them properly is key to maintaining its fresh taste. Place the salad in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to three days, but for the best flavor, it's recommended to consume it within 1-2 days. The ingredients will continue to meld, enhancing the taste over time.

When storing, if possible, keep the dressing separate until you are ready to serve again. This helps prevent the pasta from becoming soggy and preserves the texture of the fresh vegetables. For a quick and satisfying meal, simply take it out, mix in the dressing, and enjoy a quick lunch or side dish any day of the week.

Why You Should Make This Salad Now

There’s no better time to try your hand at this Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad than now. With seasonal corn at its peak, fresh produce is abundant and bursting with flavor. Summer is the perfect time to gather friends and family outdoors, and this dish makes the ideal addition to any sunny gathering. Its vibrant colors and nutritious ingredients will impress your guests while keeping things light and refreshing.

Moreover, the ease of preparation means you can whip it up quickly, which is particularly valuable during the busyness of summer. With just a few simple steps, you can create a flavorful dish that embodies the essence of summer, allowing you to savor delicious flavors long after the season has ended.