Oh, let me tell you about my favorite summer dish: roasted corn and tomato pasta salad! It’s like a burst of sunshine on your plate. This salad is not only refreshing, but it’s also super easy to whip up, making it perfect for those hot days when you want something light and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Just imagine sweet, juicy corn paired with vibrant cherry tomatoes, all tossed together with pasta and a zesty dressing. Yum! Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just enjoying a quiet evening at home, this salad is sure to impress your friends and family. Trust me, they’ll be coming back for seconds!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is crucial for creating the perfect roasted corn and tomato pasta salad. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups cooked pasta: I love using fusilli or penne, but any pasta you have on hand works just fine! Make sure to cook it al dente for that perfect bite.
- 1 cup roasted corn: You can buy frozen roasted corn, but I highly recommend roasting fresh corn on the cob for that smoky flavor. Just slice the kernels off after roasting!
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Look for vibrant, juicy tomatoes. They add a pop of color and sweetness to the salad!
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced: This adds a nice crunch and a little zing. If you prefer a milder flavor, soak the diced onion in cold water for a few minutes before adding it.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped: Fresh basil brings a delightful aroma and flavor. Don’t skimp on this—it’s a star ingredient!
- 1/4 cup olive oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil will really elevate the dish. It’s worth splurging a bit here!
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar: This adds a tangy sweetness. You can also try red wine vinegar if that’s what you have.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasoning makes all the difference. Don’t forget to taste as you go!
Now that you have everything ready, we’re one step closer to enjoying this delicious salad! Let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Roasted Corn and Tomato Pasta Salad
Now, let’s get to the fun part—making this fabulous roasted corn and tomato pasta salad! I promise it’s super straightforward and totally rewarding. Here’s how to do it:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the perfect temperature for roasting the corn to get that delicious caramelization!
- While the oven heats up, spread the corn on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast it for about 15-20 minutes until it’s golden and slightly charred. Keep an eye on it, as you want that lovely roasted flavor!
- Once the corn is roasted, let it cool for a few minutes. In the meantime, grab a large bowl and combine your cooked pasta, roasted corn, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and chopped basil. It’s a colorful medley that’s just begging to be tossed together!
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper until well blended. This dressing will bring everything together.
- Pour that delicious dressing over the pasta salad and mix gently but thoroughly, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Finally, cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This waiting time lets all those fabulous flavors mingle. Trust me, it’s worth it!
And there you have it! Simple steps to a refreshing dish that’s perfect for any summer gathering. Enjoy every bite!
Nutritional Information
Before we dive into this delicious roasted corn and tomato pasta salad, let’s talk about the nutritional side of things! Keep in mind that nutrition can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and the brands you choose, so these values are just estimates. On average, one serving of this salad contains:
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 7g
- Sodium: 150mg
This salad is not only satisfying but also packed with fresh ingredients that keep it light and healthy. So enjoy it without guilt, and feel good about what you’re eating!
Tips for Success
To make sure your roasted corn and tomato pasta salad turns out absolutely delicious, I’ve got some handy tips for you! Trust me, these little tricks can make a big difference.
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: When it comes to tomatoes, look for ones that are plump and smell fragrant. The fresher the ingredients, the tastier your salad will be! If you can, visit a local farmers’ market for the best produce.
- Perfectly Roasted Corn: For that smoky flavor, don’t rush the roasting. Make sure to spread the corn evenly on the baking sheet and give it enough space to caramelize. If you have time, flip the corn halfway through to ensure even roasting!
- Customize Your Seasoning: Taste your dressing before adding it to the salad. If you love a bit more tang, add an extra splash of balsamic vinegar. If you want it sweeter, a pinch of sugar can work wonders. Don’t be afraid to adjust to your taste!
- Mix Gently: When combining the salad, be gentle! You want to keep those juicy tomatoes intact while ensuring everything is well coated in that lovely dressing.
- Let It Chill: Don’t skip the chilling step! Letting the salad sit in the fridge allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but if you can wait an hour, even better!
With these tips in hand, you’re all set to create a fantastic roasted corn and tomato pasta salad that will wow your family and friends. Happy cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have this salad on the table in no time!
- Flavorful: The combination of roasted corn, juicy tomatoes, and fresh basil creates a vibrant flavor explosion.
- Healthy: Packed with fresh ingredients, it’s a guilt-free dish perfect for warm weather.
- Versatile: Great as a side or a light main dish, and easy to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins.
- Perfect for Gatherings: This salad is a crowd-pleaser at picnics, barbecues, and potlucks!
Variations
One of the best things about this roasted corn and tomato pasta salad is how easily it can be customized to fit your taste! Here are some fun variations to consider:
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in other roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even asparagus for an extra pop of color and flavor!
- Switch Up the Herbs: If basil isn’t your thing, try fresh parsley, cilantro, or even dill. Each herb brings a unique twist to the salad.
- Mix in Some Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. This will not only boost the protein but also make it more filling!
- Cheese It Up: Crumbled feta or goat cheese can add a creamy texture and tangy flavor that complements the salad beautifully. Yum!
- Change the Dressing: Experiment with different dressings! A squeeze of lemon juice, a splash of lime, or a creamy ranch dressing can give the salad a whole new vibe.
- Make It Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a spicy kick.
The possibilities are endless, so don’t hesitate to get creative! This salad is all about fresh, seasonal ingredients, so go ahead and make it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your roasted corn and tomato pasta salad properly is key to keeping it fresh and delicious! Here’s how to do it:
- Refrigeration: After you’ve enjoyed your meal, any leftovers should be transferred to an airtight container. This will help prevent the salad from drying out or absorbing other odors in the fridge. Stored this way, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
- Before Serving: If you’ve chilled the salad and it’s been sitting in the fridge for a bit, give it a gentle stir before serving. Sometimes the dressing can settle at the bottom, and you want to ensure every bite is just as flavorful as the first!
- Freezing: While I wouldn’t recommend freezing this salad due to the pasta and fresh ingredients, if you have a lot left, you can freeze the corn and tomato mixture. Just keep in mind that the texture might change once thawed.
- Reheating: If you prefer to enjoy the salad warm—or if you’ve made the corn and want to heat it up—simply place it in a microwave-safe bowl and heat gently for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Be careful not to overheat, as you don’t want to mush the tomatoes!
With these simple storage tips, you can savor the flavors of your roasted corn and tomato pasta salad even after the first serving. Enjoy every bite!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve made this delicious roasted corn and tomato pasta salad, let’s talk about what to serve it with to elevate your meal! Trust me, these pairings will take your summer dining experience to the next level:
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy, herb-marinated grilled chicken is a fantastic complement to the freshness of the salad. The smoky flavor from the grill pairs beautifully with the roasted corn!
- Steak Tacos: If you’re in the mood for something a bit more adventurous, serve your salad alongside some flavorful steak tacos. The combination of flavors will have everyone raving!
- Fish Tacos: Light and zesty fish tacos, topped with a tangy slaw, make for a refreshing contrast to the heartiness of the pasta salad.
- Caprese Skewers: For a fun appetizer, whip up some caprese skewers with fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes. They’re light, colorful, and oh-so-good!
- Bruschetta: A classic antipasto like bruschetta with ripe tomatoes and basil on toasted bread can enhance that fresh vibe you’ve got going on with the salad.
- Grilled Veggies: Serve up a platter of grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus for a colorful, healthy addition that complements the flavors of your salad.
- Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread or a baguette is perfect for soaking up any extra dressing from the salad and adds a nice touch to your meal.
With these tasty options, you can create a delightful spread that’s perfect for summer gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the beautiful company that comes with it!
Print
Roasted Corn and Tomato Pasta Salad: 5 Simple Steps!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing roasted corn and tomato pasta salad perfect for summer.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- 1 cup roasted corn
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roast the corn on a baking sheet for 15-20 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, roasted corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and basil.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and mix well.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
- Add feta cheese for extra flavor.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Roasting and mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: roasted corn and tomato pasta salad
