Corn Pasta Salad with Bacon and Creamy Pesto Dressing Recipe

If you’re craving a zesty, crowd-pleasing salad that bursts with summer flavors, look no further than Corn Pasta Salad with Bacon and Creamy Pesto Dressing. This dish is a riot of color and texture: tender pasta, sweet pops of corn, smoky bacon, and a dreamy, herbaceous dressing that brings everything together. It’s a recipe I reach for whenever I want something that’s both fresh and filling—the ultimate combo for a picnic, lunchtime, or a cheerful side at dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

That irresistible Corn Pasta Salad with Bacon and Creamy Pesto Dressing really shines thanks to a stellar cast of simple, everyday ingredients. Each one is essential and adds its own flair—flavor, crunch, creaminess, or a pop of color that brings the whole bowl to life.

• Orecchiette pasta (8 oz): These little “little ear” shapes scoop up all the sauces and bits, making every bite sing with flavor.
• Corn kernels (1 cup, cooked): Fresh, frozen, or leftover grilled corn will work; their juicy sweetness balances out the savoriness perfectly.
• Red bell pepper (1, diced): This sweet pepper adds crunch and a brilliant splash of ruby color to each forkful.
• Bacon (4 slices, cooked and sliced): Smoky, salty, and indulgent—bacon is the ingredient that gives the salad its irresistible personality.
• Fresh cilantro (chopped): Stirred in at the end for a burst of herbal freshness and vibrant green color.
• Salt and pepper (to taste): A simple but crucial finishing touch for perfect seasoning.
• Basil pesto (1/3 cup): Store-bought keeps things easy, but homemade will give the dressing a personal, ultra-fresh touch.
• Greek yogurt (3 tablespoons): This adds creamy tang and lightens up the dressing without sacrificing richness.
• Mayonnaise (2 tablespoons): Just a touch deepens the creamy base and marries all the flavors beautifully.
• Lime juice (2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed): That bit of citrusy brightness wakes up the whole salad—it’s absolutely non-negotiable!

How to Make Corn Pasta Salad with Bacon and Creamy Pesto Dressing

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil, just like when you make your favorite spaghetti. Add the orecchiette (or your chosen short pasta) and cook it according to the package instructions until perfectly al dente. The trick here is not to overcook—the pasta should have a little bite, since it’ll soak up some of the creamy pesto dressing later. Drain your pasta well and give it a quick rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and cool it down for salad mixing.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Pesto Dressing

While the pasta is bubbling away, grab a mason jar or a small mixing bowl. Combine the basil pesto, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and freshly squeezed lime juice. Whisk it all together until it’s luscious and smooth. Too thick? No worries! Thin it out with a splash more Greek yogurt, a tablespoon of cold water, or another squeeze of lime juice (lemon juice works in a pinch, too). The result should be pourable and creamy, ready to envelop every bit of the salad.

Step 3: Mix the Salad

In a large salad bowl, toss together your cooked, cooled pasta with the sweet corn kernels, diced red bell pepper, and your crispy, sliced bacon. It’s already a gorgeous sight with all those colors mingling! Give everything a gentle mix so the ingredients start to mingle.

Step 4: Dress and Finish

Drizzle the creamy pesto dressing over the entire salad, making sure every little nook and cranny is coated with that herby goodness. Stir to combine. Last but not least, scatter plenty of freshly chopped cilantro on top, then finish with a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste. Serve it up immediately or pop it in the fridge for later—the flavors get even better as they sit together!

How to Serve Corn Pasta Salad with Bacon and Creamy Pesto Dressing

Garnishes

A little extra flourish goes a long way! For an ultra-pretty presentation, sprinkle a few more bacon crumbles and a handful of chopped cilantro just before serving. A dusting of parmesan cheese or a few toasted pine nuts can add an extra layer of rich, nutty flavor if you’re feeling fancy.

Side Dishes

This salad is hearty enough to enjoy on its own, but it also plays beautifully on a table full of summery sides. Pair Corn Pasta Salad with Bacon and Creamy Pesto Dressing with grilled chicken, lemony shrimp, or a simple platter of roasted veggies. It’s brilliant alongside picnic classics like watermelon and feta salad, potato chips, or a bowl of fresh fruit.

Creative Ways to Present

You can turn this recipe into show-stopping individual cups for a party, pack it in a mason jar for a picnic, or pile it high on a rustic platter for a potluck. For a fun twist, try serving the salad over a bed of crisp arugula or baby spinach for even more green goodness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Corn Pasta Salad with Bacon and Creamy Pesto Dressing (lucky you!), simply pop it into an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors seem to get happier overnight, making it a brilliant option for meal prepping lunches.

Freezing

This vibrant salad isn’t a great candidate for freezing. The creamy dressing and fresh veggies just don’t defrost well and lose their lovely texture. If you want to prep ahead, you can freeze cooked pasta and bacon separately, then toss everything fresh for serving.

Reheating

This particular salad is at its best served cold or at room temperature. If it’s been in the fridge and feels too chilly, just let it sit on the counter for 15 to 20 minutes or so before serving. Give it a good stir—sometimes adding an extra spoonful of dressing helps refresh the flavor and texture if it’s dried a bit.

FAQs

Can I make Corn Pasta Salad with Bacon and Creamy Pesto Dressing vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just leave out the bacon, or substitute it with crispy roasted chickpeas or smoky tempeh strips for a different but delicious crunch. The salad still bursts with flavor thanks to the pesto and veggies.

What other veggies work well in this salad?

You can let your creativity shine! Cherry tomatoes, cucumber, blanched green beans, peas, or even roasted zucchini are fantastic additions. The key is to mix in vegetables that stay crisp and vibrant, so don’t be afraid to experiment.

Can I make the creamy pesto dressing dairy-free?

Yes, and it’s simple. Use a plant-based yogurt or sour cream and swap in vegan mayo. Most store-bought pestos do contain cheese, so look for a vegan version or make your own at home.

How far ahead can I make this salad?

This salad is great for making a few hours ahead—or even the night before. Store the salad and dressing separately in the fridge, and toss them together just before serving for the freshest texture.

What pasta shapes can I use if I can’t find orecchiette?

Penne, fusilli, farfalle, or even macaroni work perfectly in Corn Pasta Salad with Bacon and Creamy Pesto Dressing. The most important thing is to pick a shape that holds onto the creamy dressing and doesn’t get mushy.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dish that delivers crave-worthy flavor, color, and crunch, Corn Pasta Salad with Bacon and Creamy Pesto Dressing is sure to become your new favorite. Whether you’re sharing it at a cookout or prepping lunch for the week, it’s a recipe that always guarantees happy, satisfied faces. Give it a try—you’re going to love every vibrant, zesty bite!

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