The Most Delicious Corn Bacon and Pea Pasta Salad

This is the most delicious Corn Bacon and Pea Pasta Salad. Every time I make this we never have leftovers. It’s incredibly easy to make, gluten free-friendly and perfect for summertime barbecues, get togethers or even meal prep.

If there’s one pasta salad that screams summer BBQs, easy lunches and “wait I need seconds,” it’s this corn bacon and pea pasta salad. It’s creamy without actually being creamy, packed with salty bacon, sweet corn, fresh basil and plenty of parmesan cheese in every bite. Basically all the best flavors tossed together in one big bowl.

I love a good pasta salad moment, but a lot of store-bought versions can feel heavy, overly mayo-y or just kind of bland. This homemade version is light, flavorful and honestly so easy to throw together. The dressing is simple and made with olive oil, garlic, dijon mustard and a little maple syrup for the perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet.

And the best part? This recipe works for literally everything. Summer cookouts, meal prep lunches, beach days, picnics, weeknight dinners or even as a side dish for grilled chicken or burgers. It’s one of those recipes that somehow tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours too.

If you’re looking for the ultimate summer pasta salad recipe, this corn bacon and pea pasta salad is it.

Why You Will Love This Corn Bacon and Pea Pasta Salad

There are so many reasons this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your rotation:

• Easy to make
• Naturally customizable
• Perfect warm or cold
• Packed with fresh summer flavor
• Great for meal prep
• Gluten-free friendly
• High in flavor with simple ingredients
• The salty bacon + sweet corn combo is unreal

I also love that this recipe feels comforting while still being super fresh and light. The basil brightens everything up while the parmesan melts slightly into the warm pasta and dressing creating the dreamiest texture.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s everything you need to make this corn bacon and pea pasta salad:

Gluten-Free Pasta

Use any small pasta shape you love here. I personally love a penne vibe, but rotini, bowties or shells all work really well too. If you aren’t gluten-free, regular pasta works perfectly.

Corn Kernels

Fresh summer corn is amazing if you have it, but frozen or canned corn totally works too. The sweetness pairs so perfectly with the salty bacon.

Peas

Cooked peas add color, texture and a subtle sweetness that balances everything out beautifully.

Bacon

Crispy cooked bacon adds the best savory crunch. I like chopping it into small pieces so you get a little bacon in every bite.

Shallots and Garlic

Sautéing the shallots and garlic gives this pasta salad so much flavor. It creates a savory base that makes the dressing taste extra delicious.

Fresh Basil

Thinly sliced basil adds freshness and makes the entire dish taste like summer.

Parmesan Cheese

Freshly grated parmesan is key here. It melts slightly into the warm pasta and dressing creating the best texture and flavor.

For the Dressing

This dressing is intentionally simple because the ingredients themselves bring so much flavor.

You’ll need:

• Olive oil
• Minced garlic
• Dijon mustard
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Maple syrup

The maple syrup may sound unexpected, but it balances the saltiness from the bacon and parmesan perfectly.

How to Make Corn Bacon and Pea Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.

Drain and rinse slightly with cool water so it doesn’t continue cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

While the pasta cooks, prepare your bacon until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and chop into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Sauté the Shallots and Garlic

In a skillet, sauté the shallots and garlic in a little olive oil over medium heat until fragrant and softened.

This step adds so much flavor to the pasta salad, so don’t skip it.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, dijon mustard, maple syrup, salt and pepper until smooth.

Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.

Step 5: Toss Everything Together

Add the cooked pasta to a large bowl along with the corn, peas, bacon, sautéed shallots and garlic, basil and parmesan cheese.

Pour the dressing over top and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Step 6: Serve

Enjoy immediately slightly warm or chill in the fridge before serving.

Both ways are honestly so good.

Tips for the Best Pasta Salad

Salt the Pasta Water

This is the first layer of flavor and makes a huge difference.

Use Freshly Grated Parmesan

Pre-shredded parmesan doesn’t melt or taste the same. Freshly grated gives the best texture and flavor.

Don’t Overcook the Pasta

You want the pasta slightly firm so it holds up once tossed with the dressing.

Let It Sit Before Serving

If you have time, let the pasta salad chill for about 30 minutes before serving so the flavors can really come together.

Easy Ways to Customize

One of my favorite things about this corn bacon and pea pasta salad is how versatile it is.

Here are a few easy additions:

Add Protein

Turn this into a full meal by adding:

• Grilled chicken
• Salmon
• Shrimp
• Chickpeas

Add More Veggies

You can easily toss in:

• Arugula
• Spinach
• Cherry tomatoes
• Zucchini
• Avocado

Make it Dairy-Free

Use your favorite dairy-free parmesan alternative.

Make it Vegetarian

Simply leave out the bacon or swap for a plant-based version.

What to Serve with Corn Bacon and Pea Pasta Salad

This recipe pairs well with pretty much everything summer-related.

Some favorite pairings:

• Grilled burgers
• BBQ chicken
• Steak
• Turkey burgers
• Sandwiches
• Hot dogs
• Grilled vegetables

It also works beautifully as a standalone lunch throughout the week.

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

If the pasta absorbs some of the dressing while sitting, simply drizzle with a little olive oil before serving again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! This pasta salad is amazing made ahead. The flavors get even better as it sits.

Can I use frozen corn and peas?

Absolutely. Just thaw and cook the peas before adding.

What pasta shape works best?

Any small pasta shape works well. Penne, rotini, shells or bowties are all great options.

Can I serve this warm?

Yes! It’s delicious both warm and chilled.

Final Thoughts

This corn bacon and pea pasta salad feels like summer in a bowl. It’s simple but packed with flavor and comes together with ingredients you may already have on hand.

The combination of sweet corn, crispy bacon, salty parmesan and fresh basil is just so good. And the simple maple dijon dressing ties everything together perfectly without overpowering the dish.

Whether you’re bringing this to a cookout, meal prepping lunches for the week or just craving an easy pasta salad situation, this recipe always hits.

Print