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Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad

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Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad is a lighter twist on Mexican street corn, combining smoky roasted corn, tender pasta, creamy yogurt dressing, and fresh herbs for a refreshing yet hearty dish perfect for summer meals.

Ingredients

  • For the Salad:
  • 12 oz whole wheat or regular pasta (short shapes like rotini, penne, or shells)
  • 3 cups corn (grilled, roasted, or frozen and charred in a skillet)
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/2 cup cotija cheese (or feta)
  • For the Dressing:
  • 3/4 cup Greek yogurt (or half yogurt, half light mayo)
  • Juice and zest of 1 lime
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
  2. Grill or char the corn in a skillet until lightly browned. Cut kernels off the cob if using fresh corn.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lime juice, zest, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Add pasta, corn, red bell pepper, onion, and cilantro. Toss until evenly coated.
  5. Fold in cotija cheese. Adjust with extra lime or salt if needed.
  6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Add black beans or grilled chicken for a heartier dish.
  • Stir in diced jalapeños or hot sauce for extra spice.
  • Swap cotija for feta or Parmesan if needed.
  • Use chickpea or lentil pasta for added protein and fiber.
  • Add avocado chunks before serving for creaminess.

Nutrition