Get ready to transform your ordinary pasta night into an extraordinary culinary adventure with this mouthwatering Milk Street Pasta Salad! Imagine tender pasta kissed with charred corn, bursting cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lime dressing that will transport you to a sun-drenched paradise. This isn't just another pasta salad - it's a vibrant, fresh experience that will have your family and friends begging for seconds, making you the ultimate summer recipe hero!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (your choice)
- 2 ears corn, charred and kernels removed
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the corn. Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Place the corn ears directly on the grill and cook, turning occasionally, until kernels are charred and golden brown, about 8-10 minutes.
- Remove the corn from the heat and let cool slightly. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the kernels off the cob by standing the ear upright and slicing downward.
- Drain the cooked pasta in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Shake off excess water and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes and chop the fresh cilantro. Add these to the pasta along with the charred corn kernels.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. For best flavor, let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish or light main course.
Tips
- For maximum flavor, char the corn just until it develops beautiful golden-brown spots, which adds a smoky sweetness.
- Always rinse pasta with cold water after cooking to stop the cooking process and prevent clumping.
- Let the salad rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and intensify.
- Use fresh cilantro for the brightest, most vibrant taste.
- Feel free to swap pasta types - this recipe works great with everything from fusilli to penne.
- For extra protein, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
