Flavorful Summer Pasta Salad with Corn and Creamy Pesto
Ready to beat the heat with a refreshing dish? This Flavorful Summer Pasta Salad with Corn and Creamy Pesto brings the taste of summer right to your table. With colorful veggies and a creamy dressing, it’s the perfect dish for picnics or weeknight dinners. Plus, it’s simple to make and packed with fresh flavors. Let’s dive into this quick and tasty recipe that everyone will love!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 8 oz rotini pasta
– 1 cup fresh corn kernels
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes
Additional Ingredients
– 1 small cucumber
– 1/4 cup red onion
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves
For the Creamy Pesto Dressing
– 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– Juice of 1 medium lemon
– Salt and pepper
This summer pasta salad shines with bright flavors. The rotini pasta makes a fun base. It holds all the tasty ingredients well. The fresh corn adds a sweet crunch. I love using corn straight from the cob. Cherry tomatoes bring a juicy burst and vibrant color.
For the extra crunch, I add cucumber. It gives a refreshing bite. The red onion adds a slight zing. Together, these ingredients create a colorful mix.
The creamy pesto dressing pulls it all together. I blend fresh basil for a fragrant touch. Grated Parmesan cheese adds rich flavor. Toasted pine nuts give a nutty crunch. The Greek yogurt makes the dressing creamy and smooth. A splash of lemon juice brightens everything up.
This summer pasta salad with corn and creamy pesto is a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. You can find the full recipe to make this delightful dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
– Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
– Add 8 oz of rotini pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente.
– Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold running water.
Cooking pasta correctly is key. Al dente pasta gives a nice bite and texture. Rinsing it cools the pasta and stops the cooking process.
Blanching the Corn
– Fill a small saucepan with water and bring it to a boil.
– Add 1 cup of fresh corn kernels and blanch for 2-3 minutes.
– Drain the corn and let it cool.
Fresh corn adds sweetness and crunch. Blanching keeps the corn bright and crisp.
Preparing the Creamy Pesto
– In a blender, combine 1 cup of fresh basil leaves, 1/3 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 1/4 cup of toasted pine nuts.
– Add 1/2 cup of plain Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, and juice from 1 medium lemon.
– Blend until smooth and creamy, then season with salt and pepper.
This creamy pesto is rich and flavorful. The yogurt gives it a nice tang and creaminess.
Mixing the Salad
– In a large bowl, combine the cooled rotini pasta, blanched corn, 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and chopped red onion.
– Toss gently with the creamy pesto until everything is coated.
Mixing well ensures every bite is tasty. The colors from the ingredients make the salad look fresh and inviting.
Chilling and Serving
– Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
– Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir.
– Garnish with extra toasted pine nuts and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Chilling lets the flavors blend and deepen. The garnish adds a lovely finish and extra crunch. For the full recipe, check the earlier sections.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Texture
To make this pasta salad shine, you need the right texture. First, cook your rotini pasta until it is al dente. This means the pasta should be firm to the bite but not hard. If you overcook it, the pasta will turn mushy. After cooking, rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools the pasta quickly.
Next, use fresh ingredients. Fresh corn, ripe tomatoes, and crisp cucumber bring a burst of flavor. They make your dish vibrant and enjoyable. Always pick the best produce you can find for the best results.
Adjusting Seasoning
Once you mix the salad, taste it. Salt and pepper can make a big difference. Adjust them to fit your taste. If you want a bit more brightness, add some lemon zest. It lifts the flavors and adds a refreshing touch.
Garnishing Ideas
For a lovely finish, think about garnishing. Microgreens or arugula can add a fresh crunch. They also look great on the plate. If you have nut allergies, toss in some seeds instead. They offer a nice texture without the risk.
For the full recipe, check out the main section!
Variations
Add Proteins
You can easily make this salad heartier. Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a tasty protein boost. If you want a vegetarian option, try chickpeas. They add great texture and a nice flavor.
Seasonal Additions
Incorporate fresh spring asparagus or summer zucchini for extra crunch. These veggies add bright color and flavor. You can also swap cherry tomatoes for roasted tomatoes. Roasting brings out their sweetness and adds depth.
Alternative Dressings
If you want a different taste, try a balsamic vinaigrette. It adds a tangy twist that pairs well with the pasta. Another option is to mix in crumbled feta cheese. It adds creaminess and a nice tang to the salad.
For the complete recipe, check out the full recipe section.
Storage Info
How to Store
To keep your leftover salad fresh, store it in an airtight container. This will help maintain its taste and texture. Make sure to refrigerate it for best freshness.
Shelf Life
You should consume the salad within 3-5 days for the best taste. Avoid freezing the salad, as it can affect the texture. Creamy pesto does not freeze well.
Prepping Ahead
You can make the salad a day in advance. This gives the flavors time to blend and deepen. If possible, store the components separately until serving. This keeps the pasta from getting soggy. For the full recipe, check back for all the details!
FAQs
Can I make this pasta salad in advance?
Yes, you can make this pasta salad ahead of time. I recommend chilling it for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors mix well. If you want, you can even make it a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
How long does it take to prepare Summer Pasta Salad with Corn and Creamy Pesto?
The total prep and cook time for this dish is about 50 minutes. You spend around 20 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking the pasta. The remaining time is for mixing and chilling the salad. It’s quick and easy!
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can store it in the fridge for lunches throughout the week. Just keep it in an airtight container. The flavors get better as it sits in the fridge. Enjoy fresh, tasty meals all week long! For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above.
This summer pasta salad shines with fresh ingredients like rotini, corn, and tomatoes. The creamy pesto dressing adds a tasty twist. You can mix and match proteins and veggies for variety. Remember to store leftovers well to enjoy later. Try making it ahead for the best flavor. Enjoy every bite of this delicious, easy meal. It’s perfect for gatherings or a simple lunch. Now, grab your ingredients and start creating your salad masterpiece!
![- Fettuccine or Linguine: I love using fettuccine or linguine for this dish. These pastas hold the creamy sauce well. Their flat shape allows for a perfect bite every time. - Fresh Seafood: When choosing shrimp, look for firm, pink, and shiny ones. For scallops, they should be plump and slightly translucent. Fresh seafood makes all the difference in flavor. - Aromatics and Seasoning: Garlic and onion add depth to the dish. Use three cloves of garlic for a bold flavor. A small onion gives a nice sweetness. Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the entire meal. - Fresh Basil Leaves: Adding fresh basil leaves boosts flavor and looks great. Tear them by hand for a rustic touch. Scatter them on top just before serving. - Grated Parmesan Cheese: Choose a good-quality Parmesan cheese for the best taste. Grate it fresh for a rich, nutty finish. It melts nicely into the pasta and adds creaminess. For the full recipe, visit the details above and enjoy the process! Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the fettuccine or linguine. Cook it until it's al dente. This means it should be firm but cooked through. This step is key because overcooked pasta becomes mushy. After cooking, drain the pasta but save about ½ cup of the pasta water. This water can help thicken your sauce later. Next, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Wait until the oil shimmers before adding minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes. You want the onion to become clear and fragrant. This step builds a great flavor base for your dish. Now it’s time to add the seafood. Place the shrimp and scallops in the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring gently. The shrimp will turn pink, and the scallops will look opaque when done. Avoid overcooking them, or they will become rubbery. After the seafood is cooked, pour in a cup of heavy cream. Stir well to mix all the ingredients. Then, add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Season with salt and black pepper. Let this sauce simmer for about 2-3 minutes. This time lets all the flavors blend together nicely. Finally, add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything gently to coat the noodles in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time. This helps reach the perfect consistency. Let it rest for a minute before serving to deepen the flavors. For the complete recipe, check the [Full Recipe]. To make the best seafood pasta, pay attention to the seafood. Always use fresh shrimp and scallops. Look for firm shrimp and plump scallops. Avoid overcooking seafood; it should be cooked just until it turns opaque. A common mistake is cooking seafood too long. This can make it tough and chewy. Spices and herbs bring your dish to life. Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley. Lemon zest adds brightness. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds heat. Try adding a dash of white wine for depth. These flavors work well with the creamy sauce and seafood. Plating is key to a great meal. Use large, shallow bowls for serving. Twirl the pasta for an elegant look. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Drizzle a little extra olive oil on top for shine. This makes your dish appealing and appetizing. For a fun touch, consider adding a lemon wedge on the side. It gives a pop of color and flavor. These small details can impress your guests. For the complete recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. {{image_4}} If you want to change up the seafood in this dish, there are great options. You can substitute shrimp and scallops with: - Crab meat - Lobster - Mussels - Clams These options can add unique flavors to your pasta. For example, crab meat gives a sweet taste, while mussels add a briny touch. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as some seafood cooks faster than others. You can switch up the pasta type for different health goals. Consider using: - Whole wheat pasta - Gluten-free pasta Whole wheat pasta has more fiber and nutrients than standard pasta. Gluten-free pasta is great for those with wheat allergies. Both options work well with the sauce and seafood. Just cook them according to package directions for the best texture. Want to try something new? You can play with the sauce for your dish. Here are some ideas: - Use marinara sauce for a classic Italian touch. - Try a basil pesto for a fresh and herbal flavor. Marinara sauce adds a rich tomato taste. Pesto brings in bright flavors and a creamy texture. Feel free to mix and match these sauces with your seafood for fun twists. You can find the full recipe to guide you through all these ideas. After enjoying your seafood pasta, store leftovers right away. Let the dish cool for about 30 minutes. Then, place it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh for up to three days. Make sure to check for any signs of spoilage before eating. When reheating seafood pasta, keep the texture and flavor in mind. Use a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to help with moisture. Stir gently to avoid breaking the seafood. Heat until it’s warm, about 5-7 minutes. You can also use the microwave. Just cover the dish loosely with a lid or wrap to keep it moist. To freeze your seafood pasta, let it cool completely first. Place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to two months in the freezer. To defrost, move the container to the fridge overnight. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore creaminess. Enjoy your delicious seafood pasta anytime! For the full recipe, check out the earlier section. You can tell shrimp and scallops are cooked when they change color. Shrimp should turn pink, and scallops should become opaque. For shrimp, look for a tight curl. For scallops, they should have a firm texture. If you cut into them, they should be white inside with no translucent areas. This means they are safe to eat. Yes, you can prepare this recipe ahead of time. Cook the pasta and seafood separately. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge. When you are ready to eat, simply reheat the seafood and mix it with the pasta and sauce. This makes it easy for busy weeknights or special occasions. A crisp white wine works best with seafood pasta. Look for a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. These wines have bright flavors that complement the seafood. If you prefer red, a light Pinot Noir can also be a good choice. The key is to avoid heavy wines that might overpower the dish. Yes, frozen seafood is a great option. Thaw your shrimp and scallops in the fridge overnight or under cold water. Avoid using hot water, as it can start to cook the seafood. Once thawed, pat them dry with a paper towel before cooking. This helps achieve a nice sear and prevents excess moisture in your dish. For the best flavor, try to use high-quality frozen seafood. You can find the full recipe [here](#). You've learned key ingredients for seafood pasta and how to cook it perfectly. Fettuccine or linguine, fresh seafood, and the right spices are essential. Remember to cook your pasta al dente and reserve some water. Proper techniques for sautéing and combining everything create a delicious cream sauce. Try different seafood, pasta types, and sauces for variety. Store and reheat your leftovers properly to keep the flavor. Now, you have what you need to make amazing seafood pasta at home. Enjoy your cooking adventure!](https://fastmealmate.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/7c1ca401-a8ff-43d0-aae3-34555c9d3a34-768x768.webp)
