Summer calls for fresh, vibrant dishes that are as easy to make as they are delicious. This orzo and grilled corn pasta salad with cannellini beans and feta is exactly that—a sensational summer side dish that will quickly become a favorite. Created by Laura in the Kitchen, this recipe combines smoky grilled corn, creamy feta, and a bright herb dressing for an irresistible salad that pairs perfectly with any grilled main or side. If you're looking to elevate your cooking with easy recipes that impress, this pasta salad is a must-try!
Gathering Fresh Ingredients from Garden to Grill
To start, fresh ears of corn are grilled until beautifully charred, giving the salad a smoky depth. Alongside the corn, whole garlic cloves are grilled to add a subtle roasted flavor to the dressing. For the herbs, a heavy handful of chives, basil, and parsley is essential—these fresh greens bring brightness and a burst of flavor to the dish.
Once the corn and garlic are grilled and cooled, it’s time to prepare the dressing. The grilled garlic cloves are peeled and gently mashed, releasing their sticky, roasted goodness. Adding the zest and juice of half a lemon gives the dressing a fresh citrus punch that balances the smoky corn perfectly.
Crafting the Creamy Herb Dressing
The dressing is a vibrant blend made in a food processor with the fresh herbs, grilled garlic, lemon zest and juice, a good pinch of salt, extra virgin olive oil, and light mayonnaise. The mayo adds creaminess without overpowering the fresh flavors, making the dressing smooth and luscious when blended together.
It’s important to salt the dressing well to bring out all the flavors. Laura recommends using light mayo rather than fat-free for the best texture and taste. Once blended, this dressing becomes the heart of the salad, tying every ingredient together beautifully.
Building the Salad Bowl: Orzo, Corn, Beans, and Feta
With the dressing ready, the next step is to cut the kernels off the grilled corn carefully. Safety is key here, so take your time to avoid accidents. Finely chopped chives (or scallions if preferred) add a mild onion flavor and a fresh green pop to the salad.
In a large bowl, slightly cooled cooked orzo pasta is combined with the sweet grilled corn kernels, plenty of chopped chives, and protein-packed cannellini beans for fiber and substance. The salad is then finished with crumbled feta cheese, which adds a salty, creamy contrast that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
Mixing and Serving Tips for Maximum Flavor
Pour the herb dressing over the salad ingredients and give everything a thorough stir. For the best flavor, it’s ideal to let the salad rest for an hour or two before serving, allowing the dressing to soak into the orzo and beans. This salad can even be made a day or two ahead, making it a fantastic make-ahead dish for summer gatherings.
Before serving, bring the salad to room temperature for the best taste and texture. This dish is versatile and pairs wonderfully with any grilled side or main course, making it a perfect addition to your summer cooking repertoire.
Ingredients at a Glance
- 1 cup of orzo (cooked al dente)
- 2 ears of corn, grilled
- 4 large garlic cloves, grilled
- Heavy handful of chives, basil, and parsley
- Juice and zest of ½ lemon
- ¾ cup light mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 14.5 oz cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- Pinch of salt
Why This Recipe Works for Easy Recipes and Cooking Lovers
This orzo and grilled corn salad hits all the marks for anyone looking to enjoy cooking with easy recipes. It’s simple to prepare, requires minimal cooking time, and uses fresh ingredients that celebrate summer produce at its peak. The grilled corn adds a smoky, sweet note that elevates the salad beyond the ordinary, while the creamy feta and herbaceous dressing create a balanced and satisfying dish.
Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, packing a picnic, or just want a fresh side dish for weeknight dinners, this recipe delivers flavor and convenience in one bowl. It’s a perfect example of how easy cooking can be sensational!
Give this recipe a try and discover your new favorite summer pasta salad. It’s sure to impress family and friends alike with its freshness, color, and irresistible flavors.
This article was created from the video Orzo and Grilled Corn pasta Salad - Summer Side Dish with the help of AI.
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