This Sweet Corn Pasta is a fun and tasty dish that brings together fresh corn and perfectly cooked pasta for a burst of flavor. It’s quick to make and super comforting!
Imagine twirling your fork around the sweet corn and creamy sauce—yummy! I love to sprinkle some parmesan on top for extra cheesiness. It’s a crowd-pleaser at my house!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend rotini or spiral pasta because their shape helps to hold the creamy sauce. If you can’t find these, any pasta type like penne or farfalle will work well.
Sweet Corn: Fresh sweet corn is best for its natural sweetness. But if it’s out of season, frozen corn is a great substitute. Just thaw it before adding to the pan.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can use milk or a plant-based milk alternative. However, keep in mind that the sauce will be less rich.
Cheese: While mozzarella or cheddar is delicious, feel free to switch it up! Gouda or Parmesan can add a unique flavor twist.
Basil: Fresh basil is a must for brightness. If you don’t have fresh, a pinch of dried basil can work in a pinch, but use it sparingly.
How Do You Get the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
Getting that creamy sauce just right is key to making this dish a success! Here are some simple steps to ensure your sauce is perfect:
- First, start with a medium heat to avoid burning the garlic or onions, which can make the sauce bitter.
- When adding the cream or milk, stir continuously. This helps the sauce stay smooth and prevents it from curdling.
- Gradually add cheese after the cream has warmed up. This way, it melts evenly and creates a lovely creamy texture.
- Adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding a little pasta water if it seems too thick. This starchy water helps emulsify the sauce.
Remember, take your time to mix everything well at the end so every piece of pasta is coated! Enjoy your cooking!
Sweet Corn Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Vegetables:
- 250 grams rotini or spiral pasta
- 1 cup sweet corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Creamy Sauce:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus a sprig for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes or paprika for a slight kick
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Sweet Corn Pasta recipe takes about 25 minutes from start to finish, including cooking the pasta and preparing the creamy sauce. You’ll love how quick and easy this delicious dish comes together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini or spiral pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside for later.
2. Sautéing the Vegetables:
While the pasta is cooking, take a large pan and heat the olive oil (or butter) over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant.
3. Adding the Corn and Tomatoes:
Next, stir in the sweet corn kernels and continue cooking for about 3-4 minutes, allowing them to soften. After that, add the diced tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes are softened and juicy.
4. Creating the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream (or milk) and give the mixture a good stir. Let it simmer gently for about 2 minutes to heat through. Gradually sprinkle in the grated cheese, stirring continuously until it melts completely and forms a smooth sauce.
5. Combining Pasta and Sauce:
Season the creamy sauce with salt, black pepper, and optional chili flakes or paprika for a bit of heat. Now, toss the drained pasta into the pan, mixing well to ensure every piece of pasta is coated with that delicious creamy mixture.
6. Final Touches:
Finally, stir in the chopped fresh basil for a burst of flavor. Serve your Sweet Corn Pasta immediately, garnished with a sprig of basil on top. Enjoy your delightful meal!
Can I Use Canned Corn Instead of Fresh or Frozen?
Yes, you can use canned corn! Just drain and rinse it before adding it to the pan. Canned corn is already cooked, so you can skip the sautéing time and add it when you mix in the tomatoes.
How Do I Store Leftovers of Sweet Corn Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to help restore the creaminess.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Absolutely! For a vegan version, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream. Use nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative in place of the cheese, and ensure your pasta is egg-free.
What Can I Serve with Sweet Corn Pasta?
This pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some garlic bread. You can also serve it with grilled vegetables for a complete meal!
