Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese

Delight in this Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese that brings together the sweetness of corn with creamy goat cheese and vibrant cilantro pesto. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or a simple lunch at home. With its fresh flavors and colorful ingredients, it’s sure to impress your friends and family while using up that seasonal corn.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Fresh: The combination of roasted corn, zesty cilantro pesto, and creamy goat cheese creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Easy to Prepare: This pasta salad comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or a side dish; it pairs well with grilled meats or can stand alone as a vegetarian option.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and healthy fats, this salad offers a nutritious boost to your meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time for easy lunches during the week—just store it in the fridge!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make preparation smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Grill or stovetop grill pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Cutting board and knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Essential for creating a smooth cilantro pesto without any lumps.
• Grill: Adds a delicious char to the corn, enhancing its sweetness and flavor.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without 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 crumbles
• 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 crumbles

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. 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, about 10 minutes. Allow it to cool, then cut the corn from the cob and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While grilling, boil your pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cool water before adding it to a large mixing bowl.

Step 4: Prepare 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 gradually to thin out the pesto.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Pesto

Pour the cilantro pesto over the pasta in your mixing bowl. Mix well until all pasta is coated evenly.

Step 6: Add Remaining Ingredients

Gently fold in grilled corn, diced red bell pepper, avocado chunks, goat cheese crumbles, and diced red onion.

Step 7: Chill or Serve Immediately

You can place your salad in the fridge for later or serve immediately! When ready to serve, garnish with extra cilantro, slices of avocado, goat cheese crumbles, or jalapeño slices if desired. Enjoy this refreshing street corn pasta salad!

How to Serve Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese

Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese is a vibrant dish that can be served in multiple ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Plated as a Main Dish

• Serve the pasta salad on a large platter for a beautiful presentation. Top it with extra goat cheese and cilantro for added flavor.

As a Side Dish

• Pair the salad with grilled meats or vegetables. It complements the smoky flavors perfectly, making it an ideal barbecue side.

In Individual Servings

• Use small bowls or mason jars to serve individual portions. This adds a fun touch to picnics or potlucks and makes it easy for guests to enjoy.

Garnished Variations

• Add sliced jalapeños or extra avocado on top just before serving. This enhances both the flavor and presentation of the dish.

How to Perfect Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese

Perfecting your Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese involves simple adjustments and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and ripe avocados will enhance the overall flavor and texture of your salad.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust the salt, pepper, and lime juice based on your preference for a balanced taste.
• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the pasta salad to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes helps meld the flavors together.
• Experiment with Pasta Types: While bow tie pasta is recommended, feel free to use other shapes like fusilli or rotini for added fun.
• Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken or black beans. This can make it more filling.
• Customize Your Pesto: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, swap it out for basil or parsley for a different twist on this salad.

Best Side Dishes for Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese

When planning your meal around Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese, consider these delicious side dishes that pair wonderfully.

1. Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Lightly seasoned shrimp cooked on skewers offer a fresh protein option that complements the salad’s flavors.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized adds texture and earthy flavors that balance the dish.
3. Caprese Salad: With fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled in balsamic glaze, this classic Italian salad provides brightness alongside your pasta dish.
4. Cornbread Muffins: Slightly sweet cornbread muffins are perfect for soaking up any leftover pesto dressing from your plate.
5. Chips and Salsa: Serve tortilla chips with a zesty salsa as a crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta salad.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad featuring summer berries and melons can cleanse the palate between bites of savory goodness.
7. Grilled Asparagus: Simple grilled asparagus seasoned with lemon brings an elegant touch without overpowering the main dish.
8. Stuffed Peppers: Peppers filled with rice and beans provide an exciting textural element while keeping things vegetarian-friendly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help you create the best Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using canned or frozen corn can lessen the flavor. Always opt for fresh corn when making this salad for a vibrant taste.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta beyond al dente can make it mushy. Follow the package instructions closely and test the pasta a minute or two before the suggested time.
• Neglecting to Chill: Not allowing the salad to chill can result in a less flavorful dish. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld beautifully.
• Ignoring Seasoning Levels: Underseasoning your ingredients may lead to bland results. Taste as you go, adjusting salt, pepper, and spices as necessary for maximum flavor.
• Rushing the Pesto: Blending pesto too quickly can lead to uneven texture. Take your time to blend until smooth, adding water if needed for consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep any extra garnishes separate until serving.

Freezing Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be frozen for up to 1 month.
• Use freezer-safe containers and label them with the date.

Reheating Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place salad in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer portions into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed. Add a splash of water or olive oil if it seems dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of cheese instead of goat cheese?

You can substitute goat cheese with feta or ricotta for different flavors. Each will add its unique twist to your Street Corn Pasta Salad.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version of this salad, simply use gluten-free pasta made from rice or quinoa. The other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

What can I add for more protein?

Adding grilled chicken or chickpeas will boost protein content while keeping it deliciously satisfying.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes! This pasta salad is perfect for meal prep. Just store it in the fridge and enjoy it within three days.

How spicy is this Street Corn Pasta Salad?

The spiciness mainly comes from the jalapeño. You can adjust this by using less jalapeño or removing the seeds if you prefer a milder flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Perfect as a side dish or main course, this recipe allows room for customization based on personal preferences—add more veggies or swap out ingredients as desired! Don’t hesitate to give it a try; your taste buds will thank you!

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Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese

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• Author: Lucille
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese, a refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or a delightful lunch at home. This salad features sweet roasted corn, creamy goat cheese, and zesty cilantro pesto, creating a symphony of tastes and colors that will impress your friends and family. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, its versatility makes it an ideal addition to any meal. With nutritious ingredients packed into every bite, this pasta salad is not just appetizing but also a healthy choice for your table. Prepare it ahead of time for easy lunches throughout the week or enjoy it fresh—either way, your taste buds will rejoice.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 large ears of corn
• 8 ounces bow tie pasta
• 1 red bell pepper
• ½ avocado
• ⅓ cup goat cheese
• 1 cup cilantro leaves
• 1 clove garlic
• 1 jalapeño

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Instructions

1. Preheat the grill to high and drizzle corn with oil; season with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Grill corn for about 10 minutes until charred; cool and cut off kernels.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and rinse.
4. In a food processor, blend cilantro leaves, cashews, lime juice, garlic, jalapeño, oil, salt, and pepper until smooth.
5. Combine pasta with pesto in a large mixing bowl; mix well.
6. Fold in grilled corn, diced bell pepper, avocado chunks, goat cheese crumbles.
7. Chill before serving or enjoy immediately.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 380mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 15mg