Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese

Delight in the vibrant flavors of this Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or a light lunch. With sweet corn, fresh vegetables, and a creamy goat cheese finish, it’s an appealing way to enjoy summer produce. Plus, the homemade cilantro pesto adds a unique twist that will impress your friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Fresh: The combination of grilled corn and zesty cilantro pesto makes every bite delicious.
• Easy to Prepare: With minimal cooking time, this salad comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy days.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a main course or a side dish at barbecues and potlucks.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with veggies and healthy fats from avocado and goat cheese.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it in advance for easy serving at gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Grill or grill pan
• Large bowl
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Essential for making smooth cilantro pesto quickly.
• Grill or grill pan: Adds beautiful charred flavor to the corn.
• Large bowl: Perfect for mixing all ingredients together without spills.

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

To 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 the Grill

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

Step 2: Grill the Corn

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

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While grilling the corn, boil your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain it well and rinse under cool water before transferring it to a large bowl.

Step 4: Make Cilantro Pesto

In a food processor, combine cilantro leaves, cashews, lime juice, garlic clove, jalapeño, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Process until smooth. If needed, add water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Mix in Pesto

Pour the freshly made cilantro pesto over the cooked pasta in your large bowl. Stir gently until everything is well combined.

Step 6: Add Remaining Ingredients

Next, fold in grilled corn kernels, red bell pepper, diced avocado, goat cheese crumbles, and red onion into the pasta mixture. Carefully mix until evenly distributed.

Step 7: Chill or Serve Immediately

You can either serve immediately or place it in the fridge for later use. When ready to serve, garnish with extra cilantro, additional avocado slices if desired, goat cheese crumbles, and jalapeño slices for an added kick! Enjoy this delightful Street Corn Pasta Salad!

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

Serving Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese is a delightful experience that brings summer vibes to your dining table. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a casual lunch, this dish pairs well with various sides and toppings.

Garnish Options

• Extra Cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for added flavor and a pop of color.
• Avocado Slices: Add more avocado for creaminess and a healthy fat boost.
• Jalapeño Slices: For those who enjoy some heat, garnish with sliced jalapeños.

Serving Suggestions

• Chilled: This salad can be served cold, making it perfect for hot days.
• Warm: Serve immediately after mixing for a comforting meal option.
• As a Main Dish: It’s hearty enough to be the star of your meal, especially for vegetarian guests.

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

To make your Street Corn Pasta Salad truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Bold Flavor Boost: Roast the corn longer on the grill for deeper charred flavors.
• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh herbs and ripe avocados for the best taste.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving; add salt or pepper as needed.
• Chill Time: Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to meld flavors beautifully.
• Use High-Quality Goat Cheese: Choose creamy goat cheese for a richer texture.

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

Pairing the Street Corn Pasta Salad with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Grilled Vegetables: A mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus adds vibrant colors and smoky flavors.
2. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet and savory muffins that complement the corn in the salad perfectly.
3. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing bite.
4. Watermelon Feta Salad: A juicy watermelon salad balances out the richness of the pasta salad.
5. Black Bean Tacos: These can be easily made vegetarian and pair nicely with the flavors of corn.
6. Crispy Potato Wedges: Oven-baked wedges seasoned with herbs offer a satisfying crunch alongside your salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a street corn pasta salad with cilantro pesto and goat cheese can be simple, but there are common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Using raw corn: Always grill or cook your corn before adding it to the salad. This enhances its flavor and texture.
• Overcooking the pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta until al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and ruin the salad’s overall feel.
• Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to season each component, especially the corn and pasta. A little salt and pepper make a big difference in flavor.
• Not chilling enough: Allow your salad to chill in the fridge before serving. This helps meld the flavors together, making every bite delicious.
• Ignoring customization: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients! Extra veggies or proteins can enhance this dish even further.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the salad is completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese

• Freezing is not recommended as it may affect texture, especially the avocado and goat cheese.
• If necessary, consider freezing components separately, like the pesto.

Reheating Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese ahead of time?

Yes! This salad is perfect for making ahead of time. It actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours.

What type of pasta works best for this salad?

Bow tie pasta is great for this street corn pasta salad, but feel free to use any shapes you prefer.

How do I customize my Street Corn Pasta Salad with Cilantro Pesto & Goat Cheese?

You can add extra vegetables like cherry tomatoes or diced cucumbers. For protein, consider grilled chicken or black beans!

Can I substitute goat cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feta cheese or even vegan cheese alternatives work well if you’re looking for something different.

Final Thoughts

This street corn pasta salad with cilantro pesto and goat cheese is a delightful dish that captures summer’s essence. It’s fresh, vibrant, and easily customizable based on your preferences. Whether you’re serving it at a picnic or as a side at dinner, it’s bound to impress everyone at the table. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients to make it your own!