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Pasta Salad with Tomatoes and Corn

This vibrant tomato and corn pasta salad is a wonderful showcase of simple, seasonal ingredients. By combining sun-ripened plum tomatoes with sweet corn and a punchy basil vinaigrette, you create a vegetarian dish that is both light and satisfying. The addition of salty Parmesan cheese provides a lovely savoury depth, making it an ideal choice for a nutritious homemade lunch or a colourful side dish for a weekend gathering.

Quick to prepare and naturally wholesome, this versatile recipe fits perfectly into a healthy midweek meal plan. The fresh herb and garlic dressing infuses the penne with bright Mediterranean flavours, while the sautéed corn adds a pleasant texture. Enjoy it immediately while the pasta is slightly warm, or chill it for a refreshing picnic-ready meal.

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Ingredients for Pasta Salad with Tomatoes and Corn

  • 80ml olive oil

  • 5 tablespoons red wine vinegar

  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil

  • 2 large garlic cloves, chopped

  • 350ml fresh corn kernels (cut from 3 ears) or frozen, thawed

  • 575g plum tomatoes, chopped

  • 230g penne pasta, freshly cooked

  • 60g grated Parmesan cheese

Whisk 4 tablespoons oil, vinegar, basil and garlic in large bowl to blend. Heat remaining 1 tablespoon oil in heavy large skillet over medium heat. Add corn; sauté 3 minutes. Add corn to dressing in bowl. Add tomatoes, pasta and cheese to bowl and toss to blend. Season salad with salt and pepper.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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