Sweet Corn Pasta is a fun and tasty dish that combines fresh corn and pasta for a delightful meal. The sweet crunch of corn adds a lovely touch!
Making this pasta is super simple—just cook the pasta, mix in the corn, and toss with your favorite sauce. It’s a great go-to when you’re craving something different! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using rotini or fusilli because their shape holds onto the sauce well. If you prefer gluten-free, try using gluten-free pasta or even spiralized zucchini for a lighter option.
Sweet Corn: Fresh corn is best for sweetness and texture, but frozen sweet corn works too! Just thaw it before cooking. Canned corn can be used in a pinch—just rinse and drain before adding it.
Cherry Tomatoes: A mix of red and yellow adds lovely color, but you can swap for regular diced tomatoes if that’s what you have on hand. For extra flavor, consider using sun-dried tomatoes.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is ideal for authentic flavor, but grated Parmesan in a can works too. If you’re dairy-free, try a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
How Can I Make Sure My Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta well sets the stage for a great dish. Here’s a tip: Always use plenty of salted water. This seasoning helps flavor the pasta as it cooks, enhancing the overall taste of your dish.
- Bring the water to a rapid boil before adding the pasta. This ensures an even cook.
- Set a timer according to package instructions, but check a minute early. You want it al dente—firm but not hard.
- Remember to reserve that pasta water! It’s great for loosening your sauce later.
Sweet Corn Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz rotini or fusilli pasta
- 1 cup fresh sweet corn kernels (from about 1 large ear of corn)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (mix of red and yellow)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced (about 8 leaves)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 20 minutes total, with about 10 minutes for prep and another 10 minutes for cooking. It’s quick and easy, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your rotini or fusilli pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta but be sure to reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta water for later use.
2. Sauté the Garlic and Corn:
While the pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté it for about 30 seconds, or until it becomes fragrant. Next, toss in the sweet corn kernels and let them cook for about 3-4 minutes until they’re slightly tender.
3. Add the Tomatoes:
After the corn is ready, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook them for an additional 2-3 minutes, just until they start to soften. The colors will be vibrant and appetizing!
4. Combine Everything:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Lower the heat and add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Gently toss all the ingredients together, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water a little at a time. This helps combine everything and creates a lovely sauce.
5. Final Touches:
Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and most of the sliced basil. Keep some basil aside for garnishing later. Taste your pasta and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Sweet Corn Pasta hot, topped with extra Parmesan, fresh basil ribbons, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Enjoy this delightful dish that’s bursting with fresh summer flavors!
Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen corn works perfectly in this dish. Just make sure to thaw it before adding to the skillet. You can quickly thaw it by running it under warm water or microwaving it for a minute.
What Sauce Options Work Well with This Pasta?
This recipe is delicious on its own, but you can enhance it with a drizzle of olive oil, a splash of lemon juice, or your favorite pasta sauce like pesto or Alfredo for added creaminess.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. You’ll still enjoy a fabulous dish!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a bit of olive oil or water to the pasta to help revive the sauce and keep it from drying out.
