This Corn Pasta Salad with Bacon and Creamy Pesto Dressing is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors. The crispness of fresh bell peppers and sweet corn pairs beautifully with smoky, crispy bacon, while the tangy basil pesto dressing adds an irresistible depth of flavor. With just 30 minutes of prep, this dish is an ideal quick meal for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or a show-stopping side for BBQs and picnics. What makes this pasta salad truly special is its versatility swap bacon for crispy prosciutto, use gluten-free pasta, or add cheese like feta or parmesan for an extra layer of indulgence. Whether served warm or cold, this crowd-pleasing dish is sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz orecchiette pasta (or other short pasta)
- 1 cup cooked corn kernels (from fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Pesto Dressing:
- ⅓ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
Directions:
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Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a pot of water to a boil.
- Add pasta and cook according to package instructions.
- Drain and set aside.
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Prepare the Dressing:
- In a mason jar or small bowl, whisk together basil pesto, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and fresh lime juice.
- If the dressing is too thick, thin it out with a bit of water, additional Greek yogurt, or lime juice.
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Assemble the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked and drained pasta, corn kernels, diced bell pepper, and chopped bacon.
- Toss gently to mix.
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Serve:
- Distribute into individual salad bowls.
- Drizzle with creamy pesto dressing.
- Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 316 kcal per serving | Servings: 6
The Perfect Blend of Sweet, Smoky, and Savory
Pasta salads are a staple in many households, offering a perfect balance of heartiness and freshness while being easy to prepare. One of the most delightful variations is the Corn Pasta Salad with Bacon and Creamy Pesto Dressing a dish that seamlessly blends sweet corn, crispy bacon, and a luscious basil pesto dressing. Whether you need a quick lunch, a side dish for a barbecue, or a meal-prep-friendly option, this salad delivers in both taste and texture.
This 30-minute pasta salad is an excellent choice for all seasons, but it shines brightest in the summer when fresh corn is at its peak. The combination of al dente pasta, crunchy bell peppers, smoky bacon, and a rich, herby dressing makes every bite a flavor explosion. It’s the kind of recipe that can be easily customized based on what you have on hand, making it perfect for both casual home cooking and special gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Corn Pasta Salad
1. A Beautiful Harmony of Flavors
The magic of this dish lies in its contrast of flavors. The natural sweetness of corn complements the smoky, crispy bacon, while the creamy pesto dressing adds a herbaceous, tangy note that ties everything together. The pasta serves as a neutral base, allowing each ingredient to shine without overpowering the others.
2. Quick and Easy to Make
This pasta salad comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights or last-minute potlucks. With simple ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen, you can whip up this dish with minimal effort.
3. Perfect for Meal Prep
One of the best things about this pasta salad is that it stores well. You can prepare a batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy it for several days, making it a fantastic option for meal prepping. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat, and you’ll have a fresh, flavorful meal whenever you need it.
4. A Versatile Dish for Every Occasion
This pasta salad is a crowd-pleaser that can be served as a side dish or a main meal. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, BBQs, family gatherings, or even a simple lunch at home. The versatility of the ingredients means you can adjust the recipe to suit different dietary preferences or use whatever you have on hand.
Key Ingredients That Make This Dish Stand Out
While the step-by-step instructions are straightforward, the ingredients are what truly elevate this dish. The combination of textures and flavors creates a well-balanced and satisfying meal. Here’s a closer look at the star components of this pasta salad:
- Corn: The natural sweetness of corn provides a fresh, juicy crunch. You can use fresh corn, canned corn, or even frozen corn (thawed). If you have grilled or roasted corn, it adds a smoky depth that enhances the overall taste.
- Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a rich, smoky, and salty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the corn. For a variation, crispy prosciutto can be used instead.
- Pasta: The best type of pasta for this salad is short-cut pasta, such as orecchiette, fusilli, bow-tie (farfalle), or rotini. These shapes hold the dressing well and provide a satisfying bite.
- Bell Peppers: They add a crunchy texture and a mild sweetness that balances out the other ingredients. Red, yellow, or orange bell peppers work best.
- Creamy Pesto Dressing: This dressing combines basil pesto, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and lime juice for a refreshing and herbaceous taste. It’s creamy, slightly tangy, and coats the pasta beautifully.
Customizations and Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can switch up the ingredients to match your dietary preferences or use what you have available. Here are some ideas:
1. Protein Additions
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon to make it a protein-packed main course.
- Try chickpeas, white beans, or tofu for a vegetarian twist.
2. Cheese Enhancements
- Crumble feta or goat cheese for a creamy, tangy contrast.
- Sprinkle Parmesan or pecorino cheese for extra umami flavor.
- Use small mozzarella balls (pearls) for added richness.
3. Extra Vegetables for More Nutrients
- Cherry tomatoes for a burst of juiciness.
- Cucumbers for a fresh, cooling crunch.
- Avocado for added creaminess.
- Spinach or arugula for extra greens.
4. Make It Gluten-Free
- Use gluten-free pasta, such as chickpea, lentil, or quinoa pasta, for a gluten-free option without sacrificing texture or taste.
5. Change the Dressing
- Use a lemon vinaigrette for a lighter dressing.
- Add a ranch-style dressing for a creamier, tangier option.
- Swap out the pesto for a sun-dried tomato dressing for a different flavor profile.
Tips for the Best Pasta Salad
To ensure your pasta salad turns out perfectly balanced and delicious, follow these simple tips:
✔ Cook the pasta al dente: Overcooked pasta can become mushy when mixed with dressing. Cook it 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions for the perfect texture.
✔ Let the pasta cool slightly before mixing: Adding dressing to hot pasta can make it absorb too much liquid and become soggy. Let it cool for a few minutes before combining.
✔ Keep the dressing separate if making ahead: If you’re preparing the salad in advance, store the dressing separately and mix it in just before serving to maintain freshness.
✔ Use high-quality basil pesto: A good pesto makes a difference! Homemade pesto is always a great option, but store-bought works just fine.
✔ Balance the flavors: Taste the salad before serving and adjust seasoning. You might need a bit more lime juice for acidity, salt for flavor, or extra herbs for freshness.
What to Serve with Corn Pasta Salad
This dish is satisfying on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with:
- Grilled meats (chicken, steak, pork chops)
- Seafood (grilled shrimp, salmon, or tilapia)
- Fresh-baked bread or garlic toast
- A crisp green salad for extra freshness
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
Refrigeration: Store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If making ahead, keep the dressing separate and mix it in just before serving.
Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this pasta salad, as the creamy dressing and fresh veggies may not hold up well after thawing.
Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but if you prefer it warm, you can microwave it for 30-60 seconds before serving.
Conclusion:
The Corn Pasta Salad with Bacon and Creamy Pesto Dressing is a must-try recipe that combines sweet, savory, and creamy flavors in one delicious bite. Whether you’re making it for a summer cookout, a quick weekday meal, or a potluck gathering, it’s sure to impress.
Its versatile nature allows for endless customizations, making it easy to adapt to different dietary needs and preferences. Plus, with a 30-minute prep time, it’s a hassle-free yet flavorful dish that deserves a spot in your meal rotation.