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 ounces pasta (fusilli or penne); 2 cups corn (fresh or frozen); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 ripe avocado, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Juice of 2 limes; 3 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Savor the taste of summer all year round with this vibrant Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad, bursting with fresh, colorful ingredients and a hint of Mexican flair. This delightful dish combines tender pasta with sweet corn, juicy tomatoes, creamy avocado, and zesty lime dressing, creating a refreshing and satisfying salad perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a light side dish. Enjoy the nutritious goodness while impressing your guests with this easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Created by

Keira Dalton

Last updated on 2025-12-02T17:32:33.556Z

A Fresh Twist on Classic Pasta Salad

This Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad takes the traditional pasta salad to a new level by infusing it with vibrant colors and fresh flavors. The addition of sweet corn adds a delightful crunch that complements the tenderness of the pasta. This dish not only pleases the palate but also nourishes the body, making it an ideal choice for health-conscious eaters looking for a satisfying meal.

Incorporating ingredients like cherry tomatoes and avocado not only enhances the visual appeal but also packs this salad with essential vitamins. This means you can enjoy a dish that is as good for your health as it is for your taste buds. Whether you're preparing it for a casual family lunch or entertaining guests, this salad is sure to impress.

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the best features of the Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad is its versatility. Perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or light weeknight dinners, this dish easily adapts to any occasion. Its refreshing flavors make it especially enjoyable during the warmer months, but its wholesome ingredients ensure it can also be a delightful choice in cooler seasons.

For outdoor gatherings, this pasta salad serves as a remarkable side that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a stand-alone dish. Simple to prepare in advance, it allows you to spend more time enjoying your time with friends and family, making it the ultimate crowd-pleaser.

Nutritious and Delicious

This salad is packed with nutritious ingredients that keep you feeling satisfied and energized. The combination of avocado and olive oil provides healthy fats, while the fiber-rich corn and vegetables contribute to your daily nutritional needs. This makes it not just a smart choice for your waistline but also for your overall health.

Furthermore, the zesty lime dressing adds a burst of flavor without unnecessary calories, making this salad a guilt-free indulgence you can enjoy often. It's a win-win situation, as you can relish each bite while knowing you're fueling your body with nutrient-dense ingredients.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad

8 ounces pasta (fusilli or penne)
2 cups corn (fresh or frozen)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 ripe avocado, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 2 limes
3 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 set aside to cool slightly.

Prepare the Corn

If using fresh corn, grill or boil the corn until cooked. If using frozen corn, thaw and drain.

Combine Ingredients

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

Make the Dressing

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

Serve

Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to enhance flavors. Enjoy your Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad!

Tips for Preparing the Perfect Salad

To achieve the best flavor and texture, make sure all your ingredients are fresh. If using corn on the cob, select ears that are sweet and plump. If you're using frozen corn, ensure it's thawed and heated slightly to enhance its sweetness before mixing it with the salad.

Another tip is to choose the right pasta. Fusilli or penne work perfectly as they hold the dressing and other ingredients well. Cooking the pasta al dente is crucial, as it ensures the pasta remains firm and doesn't absorb too much dressing, becoming mushy.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Storing this Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad is simple. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To maintain the freshness of the avocado, consider adding it just before serving, as it browns quickly. This will ensure your salad maintains its vibrant colors and appealing presentation.

For serving, you can elevate this dish by adding a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese or a dash of chili powder for an extra kick. If you're feeling adventurous, try tossing in some black beans for added protein, making it even more satisfying!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours ahead of time. It's best to add the avocado just before serving to ensure it stays fresh.