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Corn Pasta Salad with Bacon and Creamy Pesto Dressing

Delicious Corn Pasta Salad with Bacon and Creamy Pesto Dressing

A vibrant Corn Pasta Salad with Bacon and Creamy Pesto Dressing, perfect for summer gatherings and ready in just 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 316
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 ounces Orecchiette Pasta Can substitute with fusilli or farfalle.
  • 1 cup Corn Kernels (cooked) Fresh or canned corn can be used.
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper (diced) Any bell pepper or diced tomatoes can work.
  • 6 slices Bacon (cooked and sliced) Turkey bacon can be used as a substitute.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro Can use parsley or basil as alternatives.
For the Creamy Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Basil Pesto Store-bought or homemade.
  • 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt Sour cream or additional mayonnaise can be substituted.
  • 1/4 cup Mayonnaise Vegan mayo can be used for dairy-free option.
  • 1 tablespoon Lime Juice (freshly squeezed) Lemon juice is an acceptable substitute.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • mixing bowl
  • Mason jar or medium bowl for dressing
  • large spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the orecchiette and cook until al dente, about 9-12 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  2. Prepare the Dressing: In a mason jar or bowl, combine the basil pesto, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and lime juice. Mix until smooth, adjusting thickness if necessary.
  3. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, toss the cooled pasta, corn, red bell pepper, and bacon until well combined.
  4. Dress the Salad: Pour the creamy dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Before serving, sprinkle cilantro over the top. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes for flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 316kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This salad can be customized with different vegetables or dressings to suit your taste. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.

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