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 dish combines the sweetness of grilled corn, the creaminess of goat cheese, and the freshness of cilantro pesto. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a quick weekday lunch, this pasta salad is not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser. Impress your friends and family with this flavorful recipe that celebrates seasonal ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with flavor – The combination of grilled corn, fresh cilantro pesto, and tangy goat cheese creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Quick to prepare – With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
• Versatile dish – Serve it as a side at barbecues, pack it for picnics, or enjoy it as a light main course.
• Healthy ingredients – Packed with vegetables and whole grains, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Great for meal prep – Make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for easy lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making this delightful street corn pasta salad, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Grill or grill pan
• Large pot
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor – Essential for quickly blending the cilantro pesto to a smooth consistency.
• Grill or grill pan – Provides that charred flavor to the corn that enhances the salad’s overall taste.
• Large pot – Needed to boil the pasta efficiently without overcrowding.
• Large mixing bowl – Perfect for combining all ingredients without spilling.

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

For 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 Your Grill

Preheat your grill to high heat. While it’s heating up, drizzle the corn with olive or avocado oil. Sprinkle it with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Grill the Corn

Place the corn directly on the grill. Turn occasionally until it’s charred and cooked through—this should take about 10 minutes. Once cooked, allow it to cool before cutting the kernels off the cob.

Step 3: Cook Your Pasta

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

Step 4: Prepare the Cilantro Pesto

In your food processor, combine cilantro leaves, cashews, lime juice, garlic clove, jalapeño slices, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Process until smooth. If needed, add water to help thin out the pesto for easier blending.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Pour the prepared pesto over the cooled pasta in your mixing bowl. Stir well to ensure all pasta is coated evenly.

Step 6: Add Remaining Ingredients

Add in grilled corn kernels along with diced red bell pepper, avocado chunks, goat cheese crumbles, and diced red onion. Gently mix everything together until combined.

Step 7: Chill or Serve Immediately

You can either serve immediately or place in the fridge for later enjoyment! When ready to serve, garnish with extra cilantro sprigs and additional avocado slices if desired. Enjoy!

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

This vibrant street corn pasta salad with cilantro pesto and goat cheese is perfect for gatherings or a refreshing lunch. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

For a Light Lunch

• Serve in individual bowls for a personal touch.
• Pair with crusty bread or toast for added texture.

At a Summer BBQ

• Present in a large bowl for guests to help themselves.
• Complement with grilled vegetables or skewers for a colorful spread.

As a Picnic Dish

• Pack in mason jars for easy transport and serving.
• Include fresh fruit on the side for a sweet contrast.

With Extra Toppings

• Garnish with additional cilantro and jalapeño slices for extra flavor.
• Offer lime wedges on the side to enhance the taste profile.

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

Creating the ultimate street corn pasta salad requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your dish stands out every time.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh corn when in season for the best sweetness and flavor.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: This will keep the pasta firm and prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with other ingredients.
• Adjust the Spice Level: Control the heat by varying the amount of jalapeño in your cilantro pesto.
• Let It Chill: Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge enhances flavors and makes it even more refreshing.
• Experiment with Cheeses: While goat cheese is delicious, try feta or queso fresco for different textures and tastes.
• Add More Veggies: Incorporate other seasonal vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition and color.

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

This pasta salad pairs beautifully with various sides that complement its flavors. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Charred zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add smokiness that enhances the dish.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide a light and refreshing contrast.
3. Chips and Guacamole: Crispy tortilla chips and creamy guacamole can serve as crunchy pairings that balance textures.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw adds crunchiness and pairs well with the creaminess of goat cheese.
5. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits offers sweetness that complements savory flavors beautifully.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice make for hearty accompaniments that align well with summer vibes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a street corn pasta salad with cilantro pesto and goat cheese can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can hinder your dish. Here are some tips to ensure your salad turns out perfect.

• Overcooking the Corn: Grilling corn for too long can lead to a rubbery texture. Aim for about 10 minutes on high heat, turning occasionally until charred.

• Not Rinsing the Pasta: Failing to rinse your pasta after cooking can result in a gummy texture. Always rinse with cool water to stop the cooking process and keep it fluffy.

• Skipping the Pesto Thinning: If your cilantro pesto is too thick, it won’t coat the pasta well. Add water gradually until you reach a smooth consistency that’s easy to mix.

• Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning can leave your dish bland. Be sure to taste as you go, adding salt and pepper where needed for maximum flavor.

• Using Old Ingredients: Freshness matters! Using old or stale ingredients like cilantro or goat cheese can impact taste. Always check the quality of your ingredients before starting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• The street corn pasta salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain texture.

Freezing Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese

• Freezing is not recommended for this salad due to the creamy goat cheese and avocado which may not thaw well.
• If freezing is necessary, consider omitting these ingredients before freezing.

Reheating Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese

• Oven: Preheat at 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over low heat while stirring frequently to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make street corn pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be made ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator and serve within three days for best freshness.

What other cheeses work well instead of goat cheese?

Feta or queso fresco are great alternatives if you’re looking for a different cheese option in your street corn pasta salad with cilantro pesto & goat cheese.

How spicy is this recipe?

The spice level mainly depends on how much jalapeño you add. You can adjust it according to your preference by adding less or omitting it entirely.

Can I use frozen corn in this recipe?

Yes, frozen corn is a convenient substitute. Just thaw and drain before using in your pasta salad.

Final Thoughts

This street corn pasta salad with cilantro pesto and goat cheese is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding proteins or switching up veggies based on what you have on hand. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a flavorful dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings!