This colorful corn pasta salad is a perfect mix of sweet corn, crispy bacon, and crunchy bell peppers. All tossed together with a creamy pesto dressing that brings everything to life!
It’s like a party in a bowl! I love making this salad for picnics—it’s easy to whip up and tastes even better after it’s chilled in the fridge. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Orecchiette is a great choice because its shape holds the dressing well. You can also use rotini or penne if you have those on hand. Just make sure to cook it al dente for the best texture.
Bacon: I love the crispy, smoky flavor of bacon in this salad, but you can easily swap it for turkey bacon or leave it out for a vegetarian option. You could also use cooked sausage for a different taste.
Corn: Fresh corn is sweet and juicy, perfect for this salad! If fresh corn isn’t available, frozen or canned corn works just fine. Just make sure to drain canned corn well before adding it.
Bell Pepper: A red bell pepper adds beautiful color and sweetness. Feel free to substitute with yellow or orange peppers, or even a crunchy cucumber for a twist!
Creamy Pesto Dressing: You can either buy this or make your own. For a lighter version, yogurt-based dressings work beautifully too! Adjust the seasoning as needed.
Pine Nuts: These add a lovely crunch but can be pricey. Walnuts or sunflower seeds can be a great substitute. You could even skip nuts if you prefer a nut-free salad.
How Do I Cook Pasta Perfectly for Salad?
Cooking pasta just right is key for this salad. Here’s how to do it successfully:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. This helps to season the pasta.
- Add your pasta and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Follow package instructions for cooking time, but check a minute early. You want it al dente—firm to the bite.
- When finished, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and helps cool it quickly for the salad.
Remember, overcooked pasta can become mushy in the salad, so keep an eye on that timer!
How to Make Corn Pasta Salad With Bacon, Bell Pepper, And Creamy Pesto Dressing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz pasta (orecchiette or your choice)
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup creamy pesto dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish (optional):
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- Additional basil leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious corn pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, in total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes to enjoy this tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. This will stop the cooking process and keep the pasta from becoming mushy.
2. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, crumbled bacon, corn kernels, diced red bell pepper, and chopped basil leaves. These colorful ingredients will make your salad look fantastic!
3. Adding the Dressing:
Pour the creamy pesto dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Gently stir everything together until all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing. This is where the magic happens—mixing the flavors!
4. Seasoning:
Now, it’s time to add some flavor! Season the salad with salt and pepper to your liking. Mix gently to incorporate the seasoning without breaking up the pasta.
5. Garnishing:
If you want some extra crunch, sprinkle the pine nuts on top. They add a delightful texture and flavor! You can also add a few more basil leaves for an attractive presentation.
6. Chilling:
Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
7. Serving:
When you’re ready to enjoy, serve the pasta salad chilled or at room temperature. It’s great as a side dish or a main light meal. Enjoy your colorful and flavorful Corn Pasta Salad!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While orecchiette is a great choice, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini, penne, or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make this salad vegetarian, simply omit the bacon or substitute it with a plant-based bacon alternative. You can also add extra vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes for added flavor and texture.
Can I Make My Own Pesto Dressing?
Yes! Making your own creamy pesto dressing is easy. Blend together fresh basil, garlic, grated Parmesan, nuts (like pine or walnuts), olive oil, and a splash of cream or yogurt for creaminess. Adjust the consistency with more oil or cream as desired.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If the pasta seems dry after refrigeration, just add a splash of olive oil or extra pesto dressing before serving. Stir well to combine.
