Grilled Corn and Tomato Pasta Recipe
You’ll fall in love with this summer-inspired pasta dish that brings together the sweetness of charred corn and the brightness of sun-ripened tomatoes. As you toss the al dente pasta with these garden-fresh ingredients, the aromas will transport you to a sun-drenched Italian terrace. Don’t be surprised if this versatile recipe becomes your go-to dinner choice – it’s both elegant enough for entertaining and simple enough for busy weeknights. Let’s discover how to create this crowd-pleasing pasta masterpiece.
Overview
- Boil pasta in heavily salted water until al dente, testing 2 minutes before suggested cooking time.
- Grill corn directly on hot grates for 10 minutes, rotating every 2-3 minutes until charred and tender.
- Sauté garlic and cherry tomatoes in olive oil until tomatoes burst and create a light sauce.
- Combine pasta with charred corn, burst tomatoes, butter, and fresh basil in a warm pot.
- Finish with grated Parmesan, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and a splash of lemon juice.
Recipe
Grilled Corn and Tomato Pasta
This vibrant summer pasta dish combines perfectly charred sweet corn with juicy cherry tomatoes in a light, flavorful sauce. The smoky flavors from the grilled corn complement the natural acidity of fresh tomatoes, while garlic and basil add aromatic depth to the dish.
The recipe comes together quickly once the corn is grilled, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. Each component can be prepared in advance, with the final assembly taking just minutes before serving. The resulting dish offers a delightful mix of textures and a bright, seasonal flavor profile.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound penne or rotini pasta
- 4 ears fresh corn
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Reserved pasta water (optional)
Cooking Steps
Start by bringing your heavily salted water to a rolling boil while you grill fresh corn until it develops those gorgeous charred marks that’ll infuse smoky sweetness into your dish.
In a sizzling skillet, create an aromatic base with olive oil and garlic before tossing in vibrant cherry tomatoes that’ll burst with summer-fresh flavor.
Finally, you’ll combine your perfectly cooked pasta with the grilled corn kernels, tomato mixture, fresh basil, and a generous shower of Parmesan cheese, letting all those incredible flavors meld together.
Step 1. Boil Salted Water
While the other ingredients await their turn, fill a large pot with fresh, cold water and add a generous handful of salt until it tastes like seawater. You’ll want the salt levels to be just right – remember, this is your only chance to season the pasta from within as it cooks.
Once your water’s boiling vigorously, add your pasta and give it a good stir to prevent sticking.
Keep an eye on your pasta boiling time – you’re aiming for that perfect al dente texture where it’s tender but still has a slight bite. Don’t rely solely on package directions; start testing about 2 minutes before the suggested cooking time. You’ll know it’s ready when a piece of pasta feels firm but not crunchy when you bite into it.
Step 2. Grill Corn Until Charred
As your grill reaches high heat, prepare the fresh corn by peeling back the husks and removing all the silky strands. Place the corn directly on the grill grates, positioning them for ideal contact with the heat. You’ll want to rotate the ears every 2-3 minutes, allowing each side to develop those beautiful char marks that are essential for texture development and flavor enhancement.
Listen for the satisfying sizzle and watch as the kernels transform from pale yellow to a rich, golden color with spots of caramelized brown. After about 10 minutes, you’ll notice a delightful smoky aroma – that’s your signal that the corn’s natural sugars have caramelized perfectly. The kernels should be tender when pierced with a fork, yet still maintain their pleasant crunch.
Step 3. Heat Olive Oil Mixture
Pour the olive oil into a large skillet set over medium heat, allowing it to warm until it shimmers with promise. You’ll know it’s ready when the surface ripples like a sun-dappled pond.
Now’s the perfect time to sauté garlic in oil, watching as the fragrant pieces turn golden and release their aromatic magic throughout your kitchen.
Lower heat to prevent burning – you want the garlic to dance in the oil, not scorch. Add your halved cherry tomatoes to join this flavorful celebration, letting them slowly soften and begin to burst. They’ll release their sweet juices, creating a light sauce that’ll perfectly coat your pasta.
As the tomatoes break down, you’re creating that wonderful base that’ll bring all your dish’s elements together in harmonious perfection.
Step 4. Mix Pasta With Ingredients
Once your pasta is perfectly al dente, drain it quickly and return it to the warm pot, where the real magic begins. Toss in your charred corn kernels and burst tomatoes, watching as they nestle between each pasta piece. Now’s the time to add that luxurious pat of butter, letting it melt and coat every strand with its silky richness.
Sprinkle in your seasoning combination of salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, then shower the dish with fresh basil and Parmesan. Give everything a generous squeeze of lemon juice and toss until each bite promises the perfect balance of flavors. Don’t worry if you’re trying different pasta variations – this versatile sauce works beautifully with penne, rotini, or even farfalle. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to create that perfectly silky consistency.
Step 5. Add Parmesan and Seasonings
The final layer of flavor comes alive with a generous dusting of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, transforming your pasta dish from good to extraordinary. You’ll love how the cheese melts slightly into the warm pasta, creating pockets of savory richness that complement the sweet corn and juicy tomatoes perfectly.
Now’s the time to fine-tune those flavor profiles with your seasonings. Sprinkle in the salt and black pepper, adjusting to your taste. Don’t skip the red pepper flakes – they’ll add a subtle heat that wakes up all the other flavors. Finally, add a bright splash of fresh lemon juice, which cuts through the richness of the cheese addition and ties everything together. Give it all a good toss until every strand of pasta is evenly coated.
Top Tips
For maximum flavor and texture in your grilled corn and tomato pasta, several key techniques can elevate this summer dish from good to exceptional. Start by grilling the corn until you’ve achieved those perfect char marks – they’ll infuse your pasta with an irresistible smokiness that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
For time-saving prep, you can grill the corn up to two days ahead and store it in an airtight container. Don’t have fresh corn? You can substitute frozen corn, though you’ll want to pan-sear it to achieve a similar caramelized effect.
Remember to save some pasta water before draining – it’s your secret weapon for achieving the perfect sauce consistency. When combining ingredients, toss everything while the pasta’s still hot to help the flavors meld beautifully together.
Nutritional Guide
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | 1/6 of recipe |
| Calories | 420 |
| Total Fat | 14g |
| Carbohydrates | 65g |
| Protein | 12g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 380mg |
| Sugar | 6g |
| Iron | 2mg |
Nutritional Notes:
This balanced pasta dish provides complex carbohydrates from the pasta, fiber from vegetables, and healthy fats from olive oil. The corn contributes essential minerals including folate and thiamin, while tomatoes offer lycopene and vitamin C. Fresh basil adds antioxidants and vitamin K.
Disclaimer:
Nutritional values are estimates only and may vary based on specific ingredients, brands, and portion sizes used in preparation. For precise nutritional information, calculate based on actual products used.
Final Thoughts
Freshness meets comfort in this vibrant summer pasta that’ll transform your weeknight dinner routine. You’ll love how the charred corn and juicy tomatoes create a symphony of flavors that celebrate the season’s best produce. When you’re serving this dish to friends and family, you’ll find it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone together around the table.
Don’t hesitate to explore seasonal variations throughout the year – try roasted butternut squash in fall or asparagus in spring. The recipe’s flavor versatility means you can adapt it to your taste, whether you’re craving extra heat with more red pepper flakes or prefer to keep it mild. Remember, the key to this dish’s success lies in letting each ingredient shine while creating a harmonious blend that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Dish Completely Ahead and Reheat It?
You’ll love how this dish can be refrigerated and reheated within three days! The flavors meld beautifully overnight, and it even freezes well for later use – just warm it up when you’re ready to enjoy!
What Other Vegetables Work Well as Substitutes in This Recipe?
You’ll love swapping in grilled zucchini and eggplant for that smoky summer vibe! Bell peppers and onions work beautifully too – they’ll caramelize perfectly and bring the same sweet-savory magic to your pasta masterpiece.
Is There a Gluten-Free Pasta Option That Works Best?
You’ll love how gluten-free brown rice pasta maintains a perfect al dente texture, while gluten-free quinoa pasta adds a nutty flavor. Both options hold up beautifully with the sauce and won’t get mushy!
How Spicy Is This Dish With the Red Pepper Flakes?
You’ll find the spice level mild and manageable with just 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. It’s warming but not overpowering, and you can easily adjust the heat intensity up or down to suit your taste.
What Proteins Pair Well With This Pasta Dish?
You’ll love adding tender grilled chicken breasts or succulent sautéed shrimp to elevate your pasta! These proteins complement the sweet corn and juicy tomatoes perfectly, and they’ll make your dish even more satisfying.
