Name: Smoked Corn Avocado Pasta Salad Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz rotini pasta; 2 ears smoked or grilled corn, kernels removed; 2 ripe avocados, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; ½ cup diced red onion; ¼ cup chopped cilantro; ¼ cup crumbled cotija cheese (optional); 3 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp lime juice; 1 tsp chili powder; ½ tsp smoked paprika; Salt and black pepper, to taste

Description

Smoked Corn Avocado Pasta Salad is a delightful and refreshing summer side dish featuring tender rotini pasta combined with smoky grilled corn, creamy avocado, juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh cilantro, and a zesty lime-chili dressing. Perfect for cookouts and light meals, this salad offers a vibrant blend of textures and flavors that are both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Salad

12 oz rotini pasta
2 ears smoked or grilled corn, kernels removed
2 ripe avocados, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup diced red onion
¼ cup chopped cilantro
¼ cup crumbled cotija cheese (optional)

Dressing

3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lime juice
1 tsp chili powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cook the pasta: Prepare the rotini pasta according to the package directions, ensuring it is cooked to al dente. Once done, drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely and prevent sticking.
Combine salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with smoked or grilled corn kernels, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, chopped cilantro, and optionally, the crumbled cotija cheese for added flavor.
Prepare the dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until well emulsified to create a tangy and smoky dressing.
Toss the salad: Gently pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss carefully to evenly coat all ingredients without mashing the avocado, ensuring the salad remains fresh and intact.
Chill before serving: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld and serve cold for the best taste and texture.

Notes

Add grilled chicken for extra protein if desired.
Stir gently to keep the avocado pieces intact and prevent mushiness.
Best enjoyed within 24 hours for freshness and optimal flavor.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American