Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese

Delight your taste buds with this Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese. This vibrant and flavorful dish is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or as a light lunch. With fresh ingredients and a creamy pesto, this pasta salad is sure to impress friends and family alike. Enjoy it as a main dish or a side that complements any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This pasta salad is quick to make, taking only about 45 minutes from start to finish.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of sweet corn, zesty cilantro pesto, and creamy goat cheese creates an unforgettable flavor explosion.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for summer cookouts, potlucks, or as a healthy meal prep option throughout the week.
• Fresh Ingredients: Utilizing seasonal produce like corn and avocado ensures every bite is fresh and delicious.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: A satisfying meat-free option that doesn’t skimp on flavor or nutrition.

Tools and Preparation

To create this Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Grill or stovetop pan
• Large pot
• Colander
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This tool simplifies making the cilantro pesto by blending all ingredients quickly into a smooth texture.
• Grill or stovetop pan: Grilling the corn enhances its natural sweetness and adds a lovely charred flavor.
• Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta efficiently without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all the delicious ingredients together.

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

To 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 with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. 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 2: Cook the Pasta

While grilling the corn, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your choice of pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Once done, drain and rinse with cool water before transferring it to a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Make the Cilantro Pesto

In your food processor, combine cilantro leaves, cashews, lime juice, garlic clove, jalapeño, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth. If needed, add water gradually until you reach your desired consistency for easy mixing.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the prepared pesto directly into the bowl with pasta. Mix well until all pasta is evenly coated.

Step 5: Add Remaining Ingredients

Gently fold in grilled corn kernels, diced red bell pepper, diced avocado, goat cheese crumbles, and diced red onion into your pasta mixture.

Step 6: Chill or Serve Immediately

You can either chill in the refrigerator for later serving or enjoy immediately. When ready to serve, garnish with extra cilantro, additional avocado slices if desired, and more goat cheese crumbles on top. This recipe serves six people beautifully!

Enjoy this delightful Street Corn Pasta Salad at your next gathering!

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

This street corn pasta salad with cilantro pesto and goat cheese is both colorful and flavorful, making it a delightful dish for any gathering. Here are some serving ideas to elevate your experience.

As a Main Dish

• Serve the salad as a light main course. Its combination of flavors and textures makes it filling and satisfying without being heavy.

As a Side Dish

• Pair this pasta salad with grilled chicken or turkey for a complete meal. The creamy goat cheese complements the savory meats perfectly.

In a Picnic Setting

• Pack the salad in portable containers for a picnic. It holds up well at room temperature, making it an ideal choice for outdoor dining.

With Extra Toppings

• Add extra avocado slices or jalapeño for those who enjoy a bit of heat. This customization adds freshness and spice to each bite.

For Meal Prep

• Prepare the salad ahead of time and store it in an airtight container. It’s perfect for quick lunches throughout the week, as the flavors deepen over time.

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

For an even better street corn pasta salad experience, consider these helpful tips to enhance flavor and texture.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh corn and ripe avocados will provide the best taste. They add sweetness and creaminess that frozen or canned ingredients can’t match.
• Customize your pesto: Feel free to experiment with herbs like parsley or basil if you’re looking for a different flavor profile in your cilantro pesto.
• Add protein: For a heartier dish, include grilled chicken or roasted chickpeas. They complement the flavors while increasing the protein content.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Adding more salt, pepper, or lime juice can significantly enhance the overall flavor of your salad.
• Store properly: Keep your pasta salad in the fridge in a sealed container to maintain its freshness and texture until ready to serve.
• Garnish just before serving: To keep garnishes like cilantro and avocado vibrant, add them right before serving rather than during storage.

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

This street corn pasta salad pairs beautifully with various side dishes that complement its vibrant flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Vegetables – A mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms brushed with olive oil enhances the summer feel of your meal.
2. Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on skewers offer a light appetizer that balances well with rich pasta salads.
3. Mexican Street Corn (Elote) – Grilled corn on the cob smothered in mayonnaise, cheese, and chili powder echoes the street corn theme perfectly.
4. Crispy Potato Wedges – Baked wedges seasoned with garlic powder make for a hearty side that everyone loves.
5. Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit medley can help cleanse the palate between bites of creamy pasta salad.
6. Chickpea Salad – A protein-packed chickpea salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette adds another layer of flavor while keeping things healthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Overcooking the corn: Cooking corn for too long can make it tough. Grill it just until charred and tender for the best flavor.
• Neglecting to cool the pasta: Hot pasta can wilt fresh ingredients. Rinse your pasta with cold water to stop cooking and keep everything crisp.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Tasting is key! Don’t forget to adjust salt and pepper in the pesto and salad to enhance flavors.
• Forgetting about garnishes: Garnishes add visual appeal and flavor. Don’t skip the extra cilantro or goat cheese when serving!
• Using stale ingredients: Freshness matters! Check your herbs, cheese, and vegetables for optimal taste in your salad.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese

• It is not recommended to freeze this salad due to the texture of the ingredients.
• If you must, freeze without avocado or goat cheese and consume within 1 month.

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 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through until warm.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese.

Can I make Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese ahead of time?

Yes! This salad can be made a few hours before serving. Just add avocado right before serving to keep it fresh.

What can I substitute for goat cheese in this recipe?

You can use feta cheese or omit it entirely for a dairy-free version. Nutritional yeast can also provide a cheesy flavor.

How do I customize Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like cherry tomatoes or cucumbers. You could also incorporate grilled chicken or turkey for added protein.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta.

Final Thoughts

Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese is a delightful dish perfect for summer gatherings. With its vibrant flavors and colorful ingredients, this salad is not only visually appealing but also versatile. Customize it by adding your favorite veggies or proteins based on what you have on hand. Enjoy making this crowd-pleaser!

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Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Savor the delightful flavors of this Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a light lunch, this vibrant dish bursts with freshness and taste. The combination of sweet grilled corn, zesty cilantro pesto, creamy goat cheese, and colorful vegetables creates an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, it’s sure to impress friends and family alike!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 large ears of corn
• 1–2 teaspoons avocado or olive oil
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• Freshly ground salt and pepper
• 8 ounces bow tie pasta
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• ½ avocado, diced
• ⅓ cup goat cheese crumbles
• ½ cup diced red onion
• 1 cup cilantro leaves
• ⅓ cup roasted or raw cashews
• Juice of 1 small lime
• 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
• Extra cilantro for garnish
• ½ avocado for garnish, if desired
• 2 tablespoons goat cheese crumbles for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat the grill to high. Drizzle corn with olive oil and sprinkle with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Grill for about 10 minutes until charred. Let cool before cutting kernels off the cob.
2. Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the bow tie pasta until al dente. Drain and rinse with cool water.
3. In a food processor, blend cilantro leaves, cashews, lime juice, garlic, jalapeño, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth. Add water if necessary for consistency.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta with the cilantro pesto until well-coated.
5. Gently fold in grilled corn kernels, diced red bell pepper, diced avocado, goat cheese crumbles, and diced red onion.
6. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling/Boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 240
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 10mg