Description
Discover the vibrant flavors of this irresistible Zucchini Corn Pasta Salad, featuring a luscious Creamy Pickled Jalapeno Dressing that will elevate your salad game!
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Base Ingredients:
- 7 to 10 ounces zucchini, unpeeled, small dice
- 1 – [ 15.25 oz. can ] corn, drained *
- 1/3 to ½ cup diced red onions *
- 3 cups cooked rotini pasta *
Dressing Ingredients:
- 1/3 cup [raw] cashews
- 2/3 cup pickled jalapenos *
- 2 Tablespoons pickled jalapeno brine *
- 1/3 cup water
- ½ teaspoon pure maple syrup (+/-) *
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Pinch to ½ teaspoon sea salt (+/-) *
Optional Topping:
- Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions, drain and rinse with cold water to thoroughly rinse off excess starches. Continue to rinse with cold water until the pasta is no longer hot. Use a slotted spoon to flip the pasta around the colander. Then allow to thoroughly drain to remove any excess water. Set aside.
- Place the cashews into a small bowl, cover with boiling water, allow to sit for 15 to 20 minutes, then drain off the water (discard), and set aside.
- In a large skillet, place the diced zucchini and corn. Sauté over medium-high heat for 5 minutes. Stir frequently and flip around the skillet to prevent burning. After 5 minutes, immediately remove from the skillet and transfer to a plate to cool.
- Place the soaked cashews along with all the remaining Dressing Ingredients into a high-speed blender and process until smooth and emulsified, scraping down the sides occasionally.
- In the meantime, place all the Salad Base Ingredients (including the sauteed and cooled zucchini, corn, and cooked pasta) into a large bowl, gently mix to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients, mix well to thoroughly coat all the ingredients. Serve and enjoy! Refrigerate leftovers.
Notes
Please reference the blog post for Tips for Success, Pantry Items Used, Storage and Freezing, and Kitchen Products Used.
Sea Salt: Please adjust the sea salt based upon your family’s sea salt preferences and/or based upon dietary needs.
Servings: Makes 6 cups