Corn Pasta Salad with Bacon and Creamy Pesto Dressing

This vibrant Corn Pasta Salad combines sweet corn, crispy bacon, and bell peppers with orecchiette pasta, all tossed in a creamy pesto dressing. It's a delightful dish that's perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or as a refreshing side to any meal. Ready in just 30 minutes, it's both flavorful and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 8 oz orecchiette pasta (or any short pasta)

• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Dressing:

• ⅓ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

• 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise

• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
  
  

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Dressing: In a mason jar or bowl, whisk together the basil pesto, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and lime juice until well combined. If the dressing is too thick, adjust the consistency by adding more Greek yogurt, lime juice, or a small amount of water.

3. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, corn kernels, diced red bell pepper, and crumbled bacon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Serve: Distribute the salad into individual bowls. Drizzle with the creamy pesto dressing and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
   
   

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 316 kcal

• Protein: 9g

• Fat: 15g

• Carbohydrates: 35g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 4g

• Sodium: 317mg

• Potassium: 209mg

• Vitamin A: 922 IU

• Vitamin C: 27mg

• Calcium: 42mg

• Iron: 1mg