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 fusilli or rotini pasta; 2 ears of grilled corn, kernels removed; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 avocado, diced; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; Juice of 2 limes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Celebrate summer with this vibrant Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad, where the sweet crunch of grilled corn meets tender pasta and fresh herbs. Tossed in a zesty lime dressing and adorned with creamy avocado and crumbled feta, this dish is perfect as a refreshing appetizer or a satisfying side. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or any casual gathering, it embodies the essence of street food in a nutritious, easy-to-make salad.

Created by

Heidi Lawson

Last updated on 2025-12-06T02:31:31.845Z

This Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant summer dish that combines the flavors of fresh corn, herbs, and zesty dressing, creating a delightful experience for any gathering.

Summer Flavor Explosion

The Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad is a celebration of summer flavors, combining the sweet crunch of grilled corn with the tender chew of perfectly cooked pasta. Each bite bursts with freshness, reminding you of carefree sunny days spent outdoors. With bright cherry tomatoes and creamy avocado adding vibrant colors and textures, this salad not only pleases the palate but also the eyes, making it an enticing dish for any gathering.

Grilled corn, a staple of summer street food, is the star of this dish. The caramelization from the grill enhances its natural sweetness while adding a smoky depth that balances the tangy lime dressing perfectly. This delightful combination makes it a versatile salad that fits various occasions, from casual picnics to elegant dinners.

Nutritional Benefits

This salad is more than just a feast for the eyes and taste buds; it's a powerhouse of nutrients. Whole grain pasta provides a hearty base rich in fiber, helping to keep you full and satisfied. The addition of fresh vegetables like corn, tomatoes, and avocado introduces vital vitamins and minerals, promoting overall health and well-being.

Avocado brings healthy fats into the mix, which are essential for heart health and can help in reducing inflammation. Crumbled feta cheese adds a salty creaminess to the dish while providing a good source of protein and calcium, making this pasta salad a balanced meal choice for anyone looking to eat healthier without compromising on flavor.

Perfect for Gatherings

This Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad is an ideal dish for any casual gathering. Its vibrant colors and flavors make it a centerpiece at potlucks, barbecues, or summer parties, ensuring that it will be a favorite among guests of all ages. Plus, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time, freeing you to enjoy the festivities.

Sharing food is one of the best ways to connect with others, and this salad invites your friends and family to join in on the fun. With its refreshing taste and wholesome ingredients, it’s a dish that everyone can feel good about indulging in, making it a fantastic addition to your summer menu.

Ingredients

Pasta Salad Ingredients

8 oz fusilli or rotini pasta
2 ears of grilled corn, kernels removed
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado, diced
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
Juice of 2 limes
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix these ingredients to create a delicious and nutritious salad.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Combine Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, grilled corn, cherry tomatoes, avocado, feta, cilantro, and red onion.

Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for a refreshing side dish.

Storage Tips

To enjoy your Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad over several days, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld over time, enhancing the dish's deliciousness. It’s best enjoyed within two to three days for optimal freshness, but the pasta can soften if left too long, so keep that in mind.

If you're planning to make this salad in advance, consider storing the dressing separately. This will help maintain the crispness of the veggies and the pasta's texture until you're ready to enjoy it. Just give it a good toss with the dressing right before serving to bring all the vibrant flavors to life.

Customizable Variations

One of the best aspects of this Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad is its versatility. Feel free to modify the ingredients to include your favorite vegetables or seasonal produce. Adding bell peppers, zucchini, or black beans can introduce different textures and flavors, ensuring that the salad can evolve throughout the season.

For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas, turning this tasty side dish into a hearty main meal. Each variation brings new dimensions to the salad while still retaining its healthy essence, catering to different dietary preferences and tastes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours ahead of time. Just add the avocado and dressing right before serving to keep it fresh.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

You can use goat cheese or leave it out for a dairy-free option.