Delight in the flavors of summer with this Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese. This vibrant dish combines sweet corn, creamy goat cheese, and a zesty cilantro pesto, making it perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for a fresh side for dinner, this pasta salad will impress your guests with its unique blend of textures and tastes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time, this salad comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of charred corn, creamy goat cheese, and zesty cilantro pesto delivers an unforgettable taste experience.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side or main course, this salad is suitable for various occasions—from picnics to potlucks.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh veggies and wholesome ingredients, this pasta salad is nutritious without sacrificing flavor.
- Makes Great Leftovers: This dish holds up well in the fridge, allowing you to enjoy delicious leftovers for lunch or dinner.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Food processor
- Grill or stovetop grill pan
- Large mixing bowl
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Food processor: Essential for quickly blending the cilantro pesto to achieve a smooth consistency.
- Grill or stovetop grill pan: Helps achieve that perfect char on the corn, enhancing its natural sweetness and flavor.
- Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining all ingredients without making a mess.
Ingredients
For the Corn
- 2 large ears of corn, shucked and cleaned
- 1-2 teaspoons avocado or olive oil
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Freshly ground salt and pepper
For the Pasta
- 8 ounces bow tie pasta (or your favorite pasta)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- ½ avocado, diced
- ⅓ cup goat cheese, crumbled
- ½ cup diced red onion
For the Cilantro Pesto
- 1 cup cilantro leaves (about ½ a bunch)
- ⅓ cup roasted or raw cashews
- 1 small lime, juiced
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 jalapeño, seeded
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- ¼ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1-2 tablespoons water, if necessary to thin the pesto
For Garnish
- Extra cilantro
- ½ avocado, if desired
- 2 tablespoons goat cheese, crumbled
How to Make Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to high. Drizzle the corn with olive or avocado oil and sprinkle it with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Grill the Corn
- Place the corn directly on the grill.
- Turn occasionally until charred and cooked through, about 10 minutes.
- Allow it to cool before cutting the kernels off the cob.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
While grilling the corn:
* Boil water in a pot.
* Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
* Once done, drain and rinse under cool water before adding it to a large mixing bowl.
Step 4: Make the Cilantro Pesto
In a food processor:
* Combine cilantro leaves, cashews, lime juice, garlic clove, jalapeño, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
* Process until smooth. If needed, add water to thin out the pesto.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Add the cilantro pesto directly into the bowl with cooked pasta. Mix well to combine.
Step 6: Add Remaining Ingredients
Gently fold in:
* Grilled corn,
* Diced red bell pepper,
* Diced avocado,
* Crumbled goat cheese,
* Diced red onion.
Step 7: Chill or Serve Immediately
You can either refrigerate for later serving or serve immediately. For garnish:
* Top with extra cilantro,
* Slices of avocado,
* Crumbled goat cheese.
Enjoy your delicious Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese!
How to Serve Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese
This vibrant street corn pasta salad is perfect for any gathering, offering a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dish.
As a Main Dish
- Serve it chilled as a refreshing main course, especially on hot summer days. The combination of pasta, avocado, and goat cheese makes it hearty enough to be enjoyed on its own.
With Grilled Proteins
- Pair this salad with grilled chicken or shrimp for a satisfying meal. The smoky flavors from the grill complement the sweet corn beautifully.
At Potlucks and Family Gatherings
- Bring this dish to potlucks or family events where it can shine as a crowd-pleaser. Its colorful presentation will surely attract attention.
As a Side Dish
- Use this pasta salad as a side dish for barbecues or picnics. It pairs well with grilled meats and adds freshness to your plate.
With Extra Garnishes
- Top your serving with additional cilantro, avocado slices, or crumbled goat cheese for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.
How to Perfect Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese
To ensure your street corn pasta salad turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest corn and ripe avocados for the best flavor. Fresh ingredients enhance the overall taste of your pasta salad.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook the pasta just until al dente. This texture holds up better when mixed with other ingredients and prevents sogginess.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your cilantro pesto before adding it to the pasta. You may want to adjust salt or lime juice based on your preference for brightness.
- Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld together beautifully before serving.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to customize your salad by adding ingredients like black beans, diced tomatoes, or different cheeses for variation.
- Use Different Pastas: While bow tie pasta works great, you can also try using fusilli or rotini for added texture and fun shapes that hold onto the pesto.
Best Side Dishes for Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese
This street corn pasta salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes, creating a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some excellent options:
- Grilled Veggies: A medley of seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection adds color and flavor alongside your pasta salad.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread provides a crispy contrast that complements the creamy textures of the salad.
- Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a light and refreshing side.
- Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice add heartiness while maintaining a healthy twist alongside your dish.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made from seasonal fruits offers a refreshing sweetness that balances out savory flavors.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and acidity that pairs nicely with creamy dishes like this pasta salad.
- Cornbread Muffins: These sweet muffins echo the corn theme while providing delightful texture alongside your meal.
- Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges add comfort food appeal while being easy to prepare alongside any main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese, it’s easy to make a few missteps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Skipping the grilling step: Grilling the corn adds an essential smoky flavor. Don’t skip this! If you don’t have a grill, you can char the corn in a skillet instead.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long leads to mushiness. Always check for al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite to it.
- Ignoring seasoning: Seasoning is key for flavor. Make sure to salt your pasta water and season the corn before grilling for that extra boost of taste.
- Using stale ingredients: Fresh ingredients make all the difference in this salad. Ensure your cilantro, avocado, and goat cheese are fresh to enhance flavor and texture.
- Not letting the salad chill: Chilling allows flavors to meld beautifully. If time allows, let your salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Enjoy within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
- Keep goat cheese separate until serving if possible, to maintain its creaminess.
Freezing Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese
- This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen.
- Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread salad on a baking sheet and cover with foil; heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat gently in a non-stick skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve!
What other cheeses can I use besides goat cheese?
Feta or queso fresco can be great alternatives if you’re looking for different flavors or textures.
How do I customize my Street Corn Pasta Salad?
Feel free to add extra veggies like cherry tomatoes or black beans for added nutrition and flavor!
Can I substitute the cilantro pesto?
Absolutely! You can use store-bought pesto or make your own using basil instead of cilantro if you prefer a different herb flavor.
Final Thoughts
Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese is not just delicious; it’s versatile too! You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or as a light lunch. Try this recipe today and enjoy the burst of flavors!
Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of summer with this Street Corn Pasta Salad featuring Cilantro Pesto and Goat Cheese. This delightful dish brings together charred sweet corn, creamy goat cheese, and a zesty cilantro pesto, creating a perfect harmony of taste and texture. Ideal for barbecues, picnics, or as a refreshing side at dinner, this pasta salad is sure to impress your guests with its striking colors and mouth-watering flavors. Easy to prepare and packed with nutritious ingredients, it makes for a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 2 large ears of corn
- 8 ounces bow tie pasta
- 1 red bell pepper
- ½ avocado
- ⅓ cup goat cheese
- 1 cup cilantro leaves
- ⅓ cup roasted or raw cashews
- 1 small lime
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 jalapeño
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1–2 tablespoons water (if necessary to thin the pesto)
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to high. Drizzle corn with oil and season with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Grill the corn until charred (about 10 minutes). Cool and cut kernels off the cob.
- Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and rinse with cool water.
- In a food processor, blend cilantro leaves, cashews, lime juice, garlic, jalapeño, oil, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta with cilantro pesto. Gently fold in grilled corn, diced bell pepper, avocado, goat cheese, and onion.
- Chill before serving or enjoy immediately.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Adjust seasoning in the pesto to your preference. Experiment with add-ins like black beans or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition.
