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A well-crafted dressing is essential for elevating the flavors of your Sweet Corn & Feta Fiesta Pasta Salad. In this recipe, we utilize a combination of olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, and a hint of honey. Each ingredient plays a vital role in enhancing the salad's overall taste:

Sweet Corn and Feta Pasta Salad

Get ready to impress your guests with a refreshing Sweet Corn & Feta Fiesta Pasta Salad! Perfect for warm weather gatherings, this vibrant dish features sweet corn, creamy feta, and a colorful medley of fresh vegetables. Easy to make and customizable, it’s a delightful side or light meal that pairs beautifully with grilled meats. Enhance the flavors with a simple homemade dressing and enjoy the harmonious blend of ingredients. Elevate your next picnic or barbecue with this crowd-pleasing salad!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups uncooked pasta (cavatappi or fusilli recommended)

1 cup fresh sweet corn kernels (frozen corn can be used, just thaw beforehand)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

For the dressing:

1/4 cup olive oil

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the cooked pasta and rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.

    Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta cooks, turn your attention to the vegetables. If using fresh corn, you can either briefly boil it for a few minutes or sauté it in a tablespoon of olive oil for about 5 minutes to enhance its sweetness and flavor. Dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and finely chop the red onion.

      Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or a jar with a lid, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk vigorously or seal the jar and shake until all ingredients are well emulsified and blended.

        Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, sweet corn, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the top and gently toss everything together, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.

          Add Fresh Herbs: Incorporate the freshly chopped basil into the salad, folding it gently to distribute the flavors without breaking the pasta or vegetables.

            Chill and Serve: Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully together.

              Taste and Adjust: Just before serving, taste the salad to check for seasoning. Adjust by adding more salt, pepper, or a splash of vinegar as needed to suit your taste.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | Serves 4-6

                  Presentation Tips: Serve the pasta salad in a large bowl, garnished with additional fresh basil leaves on top for a vibrant touch. For individual servings, consider placing the salad in mason jars for a fun, portable option.