Name: Corn and Tomato Pasta Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: ½ pound rotini pasta, uncooked; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 cups corn kernels, thawed from frozen, grilled, or canned and drained; ½ cup kalamata black olives, halved; ¼ cup fresh herbs (basil, parsley or mint), chopped; ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled; ½ cup extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste); ½ teaspoon ground black pepper (or to taste)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 2 reviews

If you’re searching for a dish that bursts with sunshine and flavor in every bite, this Corn and Tomato Pasta Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine the vivid pop of juicy cherry tomatoes mingling with sweet corn kernels, salty kalamata olives, and creamy crumbles of feta cheese, all brought together by a bright and herbaceous vinaigrette. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser for summertime get-togethers or a refreshing weeknight side that livens up any meal. The blend of textures and vibrant colors makes this pasta salad not just a treat for your palate but also a feast for your eyes.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows an arrangement of ingredients on a white marbled surface. At the top left is a bowl full of dry orange rotini pasta with a wooden spoon resting on top holding green herbs. To the right is a bowl of golden olive oil. Below, there is a rounded white bowl with halved red cherry tomatoes and a smaller bowl inside it containing salt and pepper. Next to this is a small white bowl filled with dark slices of olives. To the left, a white cup holds chopped green herbs. Below that is a round bowl filled with white cottage cheese, and next to it is a bowl filled with yellow corn kernels. Additional small dishes contain lemon juice, a light liquid, and chopped green herbs, with a halved lemon and two garlic cloves placed nearby. A beige cloth and a wooden board also appear in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet thoughtfully chosen to deliver a balance of sweetness, tang, creaminess, and herbs that make this salad irresistibly fresh. Each component plays its part to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture.

½ pound rotini pasta: The spiral shape holds onto the dressing and ingredients beautifully, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved: Their natural sweetness and juiciness brighten the salad and add a lovely burst of red color.
2 cups corn kernels: Whether thawed from frozen, grilled, or canned, corn adds a sweet crunch that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
½ cup kalamata black olives, halved: These olives bring a subtle briny sharpness that balances the sweetness of the corn and tomatoes.

¼ cup fresh herbs (basil, parsley, or mint), chopped: Aromatic herbs add freshness and depth, turning a simple salad into something spectacular.
½ cup feta cheese, crumbled: The creamy, tangy feta lends a rich contrast to the crisp vegetables.
½ cup extra virgin olive oil: This forms the luscious base of your dressing, adding silkiness and flavor.

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar: Provides a tangy kick that wakes up all the flavors in the salad.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds a bright citrus note that enhances the overall freshness.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a subtle, savory depth without overpowering the salad.

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped: Adds extra herbal brightness to the dressing.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs to complement the pasta salad’s summery vibe.
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste): Balances flavors perfectly when adjusted according to your preference.

½ teaspoon ground black pepper (or to taste): Adds a gentle heat to round out the dressing.

How to Make Corn and Tomato Pasta Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. This salt seasoning is crucial as it seasons the pasta from the inside out. Add your rotini pasta and cook it until just al dente, usually about 8 to 10 minutes depending on the package instructions. Drain the pasta, then rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad’s freshness. This step ensures the pasta remains firm and ready to soak up the flavors without becoming mushy.

Step 2: Combine the Fresh Ingredients

Once the pasta has cooled, transfer it to a large mixing bowl or your serving dish. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, corn kernels, kalamata olives, chopped fresh herbs, and crumbled feta cheese. Watching these vibrant ingredients come together is honestly a little joyful – the colors already make your Corn and Tomato Pasta Salad Recipe shine.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, finely chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This simple vinaigrette is the magic glue that marries all the flavors in your salad. The balance of acidity, herbs, and savory notes will lift every component perfectly.

Step 4: Toss and Serve

Drizzle the dressing generously over the prepared salad, then toss everything until each piece is lightly coated and flavorful. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshness, or cover and refrigerate for a chilled, crowd-pleasing salad later on. This Corn and Tomato Pasta Salad Recipe is so versatile and quick, it’s perfect for spontaneous meals or well-planned gatherings alike.

How to Serve Corn and Tomato Pasta Salad Recipe

A white speckled bowl filled with a colorful salad showing three main layers: bright yellow corn kernels as the base, sliced dark purple olives spread over the corn, and halved small red cherry tomatoes on one side. On top, there are scattered chunks of white cheese and finely chopped green herbs. A woman's hand is pouring a greenish-yellow dressing from a small white cup onto the salad. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with a few white bowls and dishes around it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Add an extra touch of elegance and crunch by garnishing your pasta salad with some toasted pine nuts or a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan. A handful of microgreens or a few whole basil leaves scattered on top will boost the visual appeal and add another layer of fresh flavor.

Side Dishes

This vibrant salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or even a simple crusty bread. The freshness and tanginess of the salad cut through the richness of grilled meats perfectly, making it a well-rounded summer lunch or dinner combination.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this salad in hollowed-out tomatoes or colorful bell peppers for individual portions. You can also layer it in a glass jar for a picnic-ready option that looks as good as it tastes. The colorful ingredients make it a natural showstopper any way you present it.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Because of the fresh herbs and feta, the flavors actually develop more, but the pasta will absorb more dressing over time, so you may want to toss gently before serving again.

Freezing

This pasta salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well due to the fresh tomatoes and creamy feta, which can change texture and flavor when thawed. It’s a great idea to prepare the dressing separately if planning ahead, then toss when ready to serve.

Reheating

Since this is a cold pasta salad, reheating isn’t necessary or recommended as it might alter the fresh vibrant flavors. Simply take it out of the fridge, give it a light toss, and enjoy chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen or canned?

Absolutely! Fresh corn adds a wonderful natural sweetness and crispness. Just grill or boil the corn and cut the kernels off the cob before adding it to the salad.

What pasta works best for this salad?

Rotini is ideal because its spirals hold onto the dressing and ingredients really well. However, other shapes like penne or farfalle also work beautifully.

Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

You can easily make it vegan by skipping the feta or substituting it with a plant-based cheese alternative that holds up well in salads.

Can I prepare this salad in advance for a party?

Yes, it’s perfect for making a few hours ahead. Just keep it refrigerated, and toss gently before serving to freshen it up.

What herbs are best to use?

Basil, parsley, or mint all bring great flavors. You can even mix a couple of them for a more complex herbal punch.

Final Thoughts

This Corn and Tomato Pasta Salad Recipe is definitely one of those dishes that feel like sunshine on a plate, perfect for sharing with friends and family. Its vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and effortless preparation make it an all-time favorite that will brighten any meal. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own summer staple!

Corn and Tomato Pasta Salad Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need