Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad

Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad: A Flavorful Delight

When it comes to summer dishes, few things can match the vibrant and refreshing taste of a homemade pasta salad. Introducing the Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad—a dish that captures the essence of street cuisine while also being wholesome and nutritious. This fusion of flavors and textures is perfect for barbecues, picnics, or a light meal at home. Let’s dive into how to prepare this delightful dish and explore its delicious ingredients!

Why Street Corn?

Street corn, also known as Elote, is a popular Mexican street food that features grilled corn on the cob slathered in creamy sauce, dusted with cheese, and finished off with a sprinkle of chili powder or lime. This beloved treat brings an explosion of flavor, making it an excellent addition to any pasta salad. Our Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad captures these bold flavors while keeping it light and healthy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this flavorful pasta salad, gather the following ingredients:

Pasta

  • 8 oz whole-grain or gluten-free pasta (like fusilli or rotini)

Street Corn Mix

  • 3 cups fresh corn kernels (or you can use frozen corn)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1 lime

Dressing

  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or dairy-free yogurt
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Fresh herbs (like cilantro or parsley), chopped

Add-Ins

  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta or cotija cheese (optional)
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 avocado, diced

Steps to Success

1. Cook the Pasta

Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions. Once it’s al dente, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Street Corn

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the corn kernels and cook until they start to char slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and drizzle with lime juice.

3. Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice, minced garlic, and cumin. Mix well to create a creamy dressing.

4. Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, street corn, diced bell pepper, red onion, and avocado. Add in the dressing and toss everything gently until well combined. If desired, sprinkle with crumbled cheese for an added burst of flavor.

5. Chill and Serve

For the best taste, let the pasta salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve cold and enjoy the refreshing taste of summer!

Nutritional Benefits

This Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad is packed with goodness! The whole-grain pasta provides fiber and promotes fullness, while corn is rich in vitamins A, C, and B. The addition of Greek yogurt amps up the protein content, and the fresh veggies bring along a variety of nutrients. You can also customize this salad by adding your favorite vegetables or lean protein for an extra nutritional boost.

Conclusion

The Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad offers a fun twist to your typical pasta dish, inviting flavors and textures that are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Easy to prepare and filled with wholesome ingredients, this salad brings the taste of the streets right to your kitchen. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and be ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful creation! Enjoy every bite of this summer-inspired dish!

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