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Corn Pasta Salad with Bacon and Creamy Pesto Dressing

Corn Pasta Salad with Bacon and Creamy Pesto Dressing Delight

A delightful Corn Pasta Salad with Bacon and Creamy Pesto Dressing that combines vibrant flavors and is perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chill Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Orecchiette Pasta Substitute with fusilli if desired.
  • 1 cup Corn Kernels About 2 ears of fresh corn.
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper Diced.
  • 6 slices Bacon Cook until crispy.
  • 1 cup Fresh Cilantro Adjust quantity to taste.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Basil Pesto Store-bought or homemade.
  • 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt For creaminess.
  • 1/4 cup Mayonnaise Can double Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing.
  • 2 Tbsp Lime Juice Freshly squeezed is best.
  • to taste Salt Essential for seasoning.
  • to taste Pepper Essential for seasoning.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Skillet
  • Mason jar or bowl
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the orecchiette pasta in boiling salted water for 10-12 minutes until al dente. Drain and let cool slightly.
  2. Prepare the dressing by mixing basil pesto, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and lime juice in a jar or bowl until creamy.
  3. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat for 6-8 minutes until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and chop.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine pasta, corn, diced red bell pepper, and chopped bacon. Stir gently to mix.
  5. Pour the creamy pesto dressing over the salad mixture and fold everything together gently until well-coated.
  6. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 12gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best taste, let the salad sit for a while before serving, and feel free to add extra vegetables like cherry tomatoes or avocado for freshness.

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