Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta salad is a winning combination of ingredients that complement each other perfectly. The fresh, crunchy asparagus and sweet corn add a lightness and texture, while the creamy Parmesan dressing brings everything together with richness. It’s simple to make, can be enjoyed warm or cold, and is a great dish for meal prep or as a side for barbecues, picnics, or family dinners. Plus, it’s a great way to get your veggies in without compromising on flavor!

Ingredients

8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli work well)
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
¼ cup olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs (such as parsley or basil) for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the asparagus and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until it becomes slightly tender but still crisp. Add the corn and cook for an additional 2 minutes until warmed through. Remove from heat.
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed asparagus, and corn. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss everything together until evenly coated.
Add the grated Parmesan cheese and toss again to incorporate.
Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add protein: You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a more filling meal.
Swap the cheese: Try using feta, goat cheese, or mozzarella for a different twist on the flavor.
Different vegetables: If you don’t have asparagus, try swapping it with zucchini, green beans, or even roasted bell peppers for added variety.
Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small diced jalapeño to the dressing for some extra heat.

Storage/Reheating

This pasta salad stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the pasta from becoming too soggy, store the dressing separately and toss the salad right before serving. If you prefer to enjoy it warm, simply heat it in a microwave for 1-2 minutes, or toss it in a pan over low heat until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and add the dressing right before serving.

Can I use frozen corn in this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen corn works perfectly, just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the salad.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, this recipe contains regular pasta. To make it gluten-free, you can swap the pasta for a gluten-free variety.

Can I add a different type of cheese?

Yes! You can use feta, goat cheese, or mozzarella instead of Parmesan if you prefer.

What can I use instead of Dijon mustard?

You can substitute Dijon mustard with yellow mustard or even a teaspoon of honey mustard for a sweeter flavor.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make it vegan, use a plant-based cheese substitute and swap the honey mustard for maple syrup or leave it out altogether.

Can I add more vegetables to the salad?

Definitely! Roasted red peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even roasted sweet potatoes can make great additions to this salad.

How do I make the salad creamier?

For a creamier version, you can add a bit of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to the dressing.

Can I serve this dish warm?

Yes, this dish is delicious both warm and cold, so feel free to serve it however you prefer.

Can I freeze this pasta salad?

It’s not recommended to freeze this pasta salad as the texture of the vegetables may change when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making it.

Conclusion

Parmesan Pasta Salad with Asparagus and Corn is a versatile, quick, and tasty dish that’s sure to please a crowd. Whether you’re serving it at a picnic, barbecue, or enjoying it as a weeknight meal, this salad offers a wonderful balance of textures and flavors. It’s easy to customize, and leftovers can be enjoyed for days. Make this refreshing salad your go-to for any occasion!