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+ servings
Corn Pasta Salad with Bacon and Creamy Pesto Dressing

Corn Pasta Salad with Bacon and Creamy Pesto Bliss

Delight in this Corn Pasta Salad with Bacon and Creamy Pesto Dressing, a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 cup Orecchiette Pasta Substitute with fusilli or farfalle for variety.
For the Salad
  • 1 cup Corn Kernels Cooked, can use fresh or drained canned corn.
  • 1 Red Bell Pepper Diced, can switch to yellow or orange.
  • 4 slices Bacon Cooked and sliced; can omit for vegetarian option.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Cilantro Chopped, substitute with parsley if desired.
For the Dressing
  • cup Basil Pesto Store-bought or homemade.
  • 3 tablespoons Greek Yogurt Replace with sour cream or vegan yogurt for dairy-free.
  • 2 tablespoons Mayonnaise Can omit or use extra yogurt.
  • 2 tablespoons Lime Juice Freshly squeezed for the best flavor.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • mason jar or mixing bowl
  • large mixing bowl

Method
 

How to Make Corn Pasta Salad with Bacon and Creamy Pesto Dressing
  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the orecchiette pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it's al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. In a mason jar or a mixing bowl, whisk together the basil pesto, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and freshly squeezed lime juice until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding a splash of water or more yogurt if necessary.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, corn kernels, diced red bell pepper, and sliced bacon. Pour the creamy pesto dressing over the top and gently toss everything together until well coated.
  4. Spoon the salad into serving bowls, garnish with chopped cilantro, and enjoy! This vibrant dish is ready to impress your guests or family.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 5mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For a refreshing twist, add halved cherry tomatoes or diced cucumbers just before serving. Ensure to let the salad marinate for better flavor development.

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