Ingredients
– 8 oz pasta (your choice, such as rotini or fusilli)
– 4 strips of bacon
– 2 cups of fresh corn kernels (can use frozen corn too)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– ½ cup red onion, diced
– ½ cup mayonnaise
– ¼ cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Creating the delicious Corn Pasta Salad with Bacon and Creamy Pesto Dressing involves the following easy steps:
1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions. Once al dente, drain and set aside to cool.
2. Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove from the skillet and place on paper towels to drain excess grease, then crumble it into small pieces.
3. Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta and bacon are cooling, chop the corn kernels, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
4. Make the Dressing: In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, pesto, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the dressing is well blended and creamy.
5. Combine Ingredients: In the same bowl, add the cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, corn, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
6. Mix Thoroughly: Toss everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy pesto dressing.
7. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
8. Chill (Optional): For best results, allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors to meld beautifully.
9. Garnish: Before serving, garnish with fresh basil for an extra touch of flavor.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Serve this stunning salad chilled or at room temperature, enjoying every vibrant bite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-6
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 10g