This colorful corn pasta salad is a fun mix of flavors! With crispy bacon, crunchy bell peppers, and a creamy pesto dressing, it’s perfect for sharing at picnics or potlucks.
I love how this salad brings everyone together. Just imagine the smiles when they taste the crispy bits of bacon and the fresh veggies. You might need to make extra—trust me!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Orecchiette or rotini are great options for this salad because their shapes hold onto the dressing well. If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can use quinoa or a gluten-free pasta blend.
Bacon: Crisp bacon adds a smoky flavor. If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, you could use smoked tempeh or omit it altogether and replace with some nuts for crunch.
Corn: Fresh corn is sweet and crunchy, but frozen corn works just as well and is often more convenient. You can also use canned corn, just drain it well.
Bell Pepper: Red bell pepper gives a sweet taste and vibrant color. Feel free to swap with any color pepper or use chopped cucumber for a different crunch.
Basil: Fresh basil brings a lovely aroma, but dried basil is a good alternative if you don’t have fresh on hand. Just use less since dried basil is more potent.
Pesto Dressing: Homemade pesto is fantastic but store-bought is just fine for ease. If you’re avoiding dairy, consider using a vegan pesto instead.
How Do I Cook Pasta Perfectly for a Salad?
Cooking pasta correctly is key for this salad to be enjoyable. You want it to be firm yet tender, which is known as al dente. Here’s how to do it:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. The salt enhances the flavor of the pasta.
- Add the pasta and stir to prevent sticking. Check the package for cooking time, usually around 8-10 minutes.
- Start tasting a couple of minutes before the time is up. Once it has a slight bite (al dente), drain the pasta.
- Immediately rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad.
By following these steps, your pasta will be perfect for mixing with the other ingredients!
How to Make Corn Pasta Salad With Bacon, Bell Pepper, And Creamy Pesto Dressing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 ounces pasta (such as orecchiette or rotini)
- 4 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup creamy pesto dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Optional: additional fresh basil for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Corn Pasta Salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. You’ll enjoy a refreshing salad that’s perfect for gatherings or a light meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once it’s bubbling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. After cooking, drain the pasta and give it a quick rinse under cold water to cool it down. This will help stop the cooking process and keep your pasta nice and firm.
2. Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, gather your cooled pasta. Add the crumbled bacon, corn kernels, diced red bell pepper, and chopped fresh basil. These ingredients will add wonderful colors and flavors to your salad!
3. Add the Dressing:
Next, pour the creamy pesto dressing over your pasta mixture. Gently mix everything together until all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing. This is where the magic happens, as the pesto brings everything to life!
4. Season and Chill:
Give your salad a taste and sprinkle in salt and pepper to your liking. You can always add more later! Once seasoned, it’s time to let the flavors mingle. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
5. Serve and Garnish:
When you’re ready to serve, take the salad out of the fridge. Give it a gentle toss to mix everything again. If you have some extra fresh basil, sprinkle it on top for a beautiful garnish. Now it’s time to enjoy your delicious Corn Pasta Salad!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you have on hand, such as penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to follow cooking instructions for the specific type you choose to ensure it’s cooked to al dente.
What If I Don’t Have Bacon?
No worries! You can substitute bacon with cooked and crumbled turkey bacon or omit it entirely for a vegetarian version. For an extra flavor boost, consider adding roasted chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms in place of the bacon.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To refresh the salad before serving, you might want to add a splash of extra creamy pesto dressing or a little olive oil to revive the flavors.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This pasta salad is perfect for make-ahead meals. Prepare it a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. It allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier when it’s time to serve!
