Description
Corn Pasta Salad with Bacon and Creamy Pesto Dressing is a vibrant, flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of fresh corn, the crunch of crispy bacon, and the rich creaminess of pesto. Perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or as a quick weeknight meal, this salad is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. With minimal prep time and straightforward instructions, you can create a delightful dish that impresses even the pickiest eaters. The hearty pasta paired with fresh ingredients ensures every bite is packed with flavor, making it an ideal side dish or light main course for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 8 oz fusilli or penne pasta
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels (or thawed frozen corn)
- 6 slices bacon
- ½ cup pesto sauce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook diced bacon until crispy. Remove from heat and drain excess grease.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, corn, halved cherry tomatoes, crispy bacon, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together pesto sauce and olive oil until smooth. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to combine.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
– For extra crunch, add diced bell peppers or cucumbers.
– Substitute turkey bacon for a lighter option.
– To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 25mg