Corn Pasta Salad with Bacon and Creamy Pesto Dressing

If you’re looking for a fresh, flavorful side dish that’s easy to make and perfect for gatherings, this Corn Pasta Salad with Bacon and Creamy Pesto Dressing is a fantastic choice. It combines tender pasta, sweet corn, crispy bacon, and vibrant bell peppers tossed in a creamy pesto yogurt dressing that brings everything together.

The pesto dressing adds rich herbal flavor while the Greek yogurt keeps it light and creamy. A splash of lime juice brightens the whole dish, making it refreshing enough for warm-weather meals yet hearty enough to serve year-round.

This pasta salad comes together in about 25 minutes, making it perfect for quick lunches, potlucks, picnics, or weeknight dinners.

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Why I Love This Recipe

This pasta salad is packed with texture and flavor.

Here’s why it stands out:

• Sweet corn and crispy bacon create the perfect balance
• Creamy pesto dressing adds bold flavor
• Quick and easy to prepare
• Great for meal prep or gatherings
• Delicious served chilled or at room temperature

It’s the type of side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or simple weeknight meals.

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Ingredients

• 8 oz orecchiette pasta (or other short pasta)
• 1 cup corn kernels, cooked
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and sliced
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Creamy Pesto Dressing

• ⅓ cup basil pesto
• 3 tbsp Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice

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Ingredient Swaps and Notes

This pasta salad is very versatile and easy to adjust.

Pasta choices

You can substitute:

• rotini
• fusilli
• bow tie pasta
• penne

Vegetable additions

Try adding:

• cherry tomatoes
• cucumber
• avocado
• green onions

Protein options

For a more filling meal, consider adding:

• grilled chicken
• shrimp
• chickpeas

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.

Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Allow the pasta to cool completely before assembling the salad.

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2. Prepare the Salad Base

In a large mixing bowl combine:

• cooled pasta
• corn kernels
• diced red bell pepper
• sliced bacon

Gently toss everything together.

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3. Make the Creamy Pesto Dressing

In a small bowl whisk together:

• basil pesto
• Greek yogurt
• mayonnaise
• fresh lime juice

Whisk until smooth and well combined.

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4. Toss the Salad

Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture.

Gently toss until everything is evenly coated.

Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

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5. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the top.

Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors blend.

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Tips for the Best Pasta Salad

A few simple tips can make this salad even better.

Cook pasta just until al dente

Overcooked pasta can become mushy once mixed with dressing.

Cool the pasta completely

Warm pasta can thin out the dressing.

Crisp the bacon well

Extra crispy bacon adds great texture and flavor.

Taste before serving

Adjust salt, lime juice, or pesto depending on your preference.

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Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This pasta salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes.

For a light lunch or dinner combo, serve it alongside
Easy Homemade Caesar Salad with Chicken.

If you’re preparing a picnic or potluck spread, another great option is
Easy Classic Pasta Salad for Any Gathering.

For quick weekday lunches, pair it with
The Ultimate Turkey Club Wrap for Easy Lunches.

Lighter protein options like
Classic Tuna Salad with a Healthy No Mayo Twist
also complement this pasta salad nicely.

And if you’re craving something comforting for dinner, try
Fettuccine Alfredo – The Creamy Pasta That Became a Comfort Food Favorite.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Approximate values:

• Calories: 420
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 41g
• Protein: 14g

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Storage Tips

This salad stores well and is great for meal prep.

Refrigerator

Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.

Before serving

Give the salad a quick toss and add a splash of lime juice if it needs refreshing.

Make ahead tip

Prepare the salad a few hours in advance to allow the flavors to fully develop.

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More Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoy fresh, easy dishes like this one, check out:

• Easy Classic Pasta Salad for Any Gathering
• Easy Homemade Caesar Salad with Chicken
• Classic Tuna Salad with a Healthy No Mayo Twist
• Fettuccine Alfredo – The Creamy Pasta That Became a Comfort Food Favorite
• The Ultimate Turkey Club Wrap for Easy Lunches

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Final Thoughts

This Corn Pasta Salad with Bacon and Creamy Pesto Dressing is a perfect blend of fresh flavors, creamy texture, and satisfying crunch. With sweet corn, smoky bacon, and vibrant herbs, it’s a dish that feels both refreshing and comforting at the same time.

Whether you’re preparing a quick side dish, meal-prepping lunches, or bringing something to a gathering, this pasta salad is guaranteed to be a crowd favorite.

If you try this recipe, feel free to share your favorite variations and serving ideas. And don’t forget to follow along for more delicious recipes from Jason Griffith at ChefManiac.