Introduction
Creamy Corn Pasta is a delightful and comforting dish that celebrates the sweet, fresh flavors of corn. This recipe, derived from Love and Lemons, combines al dente shell pasta with a luscious creamy sauce made from corn, shallots, and cheese. The addition of fresh basil and a hint of lemon juice elevates the dish, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
12 ounces shell pasta
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
Kernels from 4 ears fresh corn (about 3 cups)
2 shallots, chopped (approximately ⅔ cup)
2 garlic cloves, chopped
1 teaspoon sea salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
½ cup grated pecorino cheese
1 cup fresh basil leaves
Red pepper flakes, for sprinkling
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Time
35 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Enjoy your creamy corn pasta!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente, following the package instructions. Reserve 1½ cups of the pasta cooking water before draining.
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large, deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the corn kernels, shallots, garlic, salt, and several grinds of black pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shallots are softened and the corn is tender and bright yellow. Remove from heat.
Prepare the Sauce
Transfer half of the corn mixture to a blender. Add ½ cup of the reserved pasta water and the lemon juice. Blend until smooth.
Combine and Heat
Return the skillet to low heat. Add the cooked pasta and the corn puree to the skillet, stirring to combine. Add the grated pecorino cheese and an additional ¼ cup of the reserved pasta water. Stir until the cheese melts into the sauce. If needed, add more pasta water to achieve your desired sauce consistency.
Season and Serve
Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, lemon juice, and/or cheese as desired. Fold in half of the fresh basil leaves. Garnish with the remaining basil and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Serve immediately, with extra cheese if preferred.
Notes
Pasta Choice
Shell pasta works well for this recipe, but you can use any type of pasta you prefer.
Fresh Corn
Using fresh corn enhances the flavor, but frozen corn can be a substitute if fresh is not available.
Adjusting Creaminess
The sauce can be made creamier by adding more reserved pasta water or by using additional cheese.
Herbs
Feel free to mix in other fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added flavor.
Spice Level
Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference.
Cook Techniques
Cooking Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil before adding the pasta. Cook until al dente, as per package instructions. Remember to reserve some cooking water for later use in the sauce.
Sautéing Vegetables
Use medium heat to sauté the corn, shallots, and garlic. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to prevent burning. The goal is to soften the shallots while keeping the corn tender and vibrant.
Blending for Smoothness
Transfer half of the sautéed vegetable mixture to a blender to create a smooth sauce. Adding reserved pasta water helps achieve the desired consistency.
Combining and Heating
Return the skillet to low heat after blending. Combine the pasta, corn puree, and cheese gradually, adding pasta water as necessary to reach a creamier sauce.
Seasoning and Garnishing
Enhance the dish’s flavor by adjusting seasonings such as salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Fold in fresh basil for added aroma and color, finishing with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.
FAQ
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen corn can be used as a substitute. Just ensure it is thoroughly thawed and drained before sautéing.
What other cheeses can I use instead of pecorino?
Parmesan cheese is a great alternative. It provides a similar salty and nutty flavor.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
Substitute the cheese with a plant-based alternative and use olive oil instead of butter. You can also omit the cheese entirely for a different flavor profile.
Can I add protein to this pasta dish?
Yes, cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can be added for protein. Just ensure they are heated through before serving.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a little water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Conclusion
The Creamy Corn Pasta is a delightful dish that perfectly balances the sweetness of corn with the richness of the cheese and the freshness of herbs. It’s easy to prepare and makes for a comforting meal any day of the week. This dish is not only satisfying but also a great way to celebrate the flavors of fresh corn during the summer months.
More recipes suggestions and combination
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