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Creamy Sweet Corn Pasta Without Heavy Cream

A fork lifts a generous twirl of bright yellow Creamy corn pasta mixed with corn kernels and green herbs.
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Make this easy vegetarian dinner featuring a glossy, emulsified sauce created by blending sweet corn kernels for a luxurious texture that coats the pasta perfectly.

Ingredients

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  • 1 pound pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 shallots, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups fresh or frozen sweet corn kernels
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, omit for vegan)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Before draining, reserve at least 1 cup of the starchy cooking water. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped shallots and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Do not let the garlic brown.
  4. Add 3 cups of the corn kernels to the skillet along with the vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  5. Carefully transfer the corn mixture to a blender. Add 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. This creates your sauce base.
  6. Return the smooth corn sauce to the skillet over low heat. Stir in the butter and Parmesan cheese (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
  7. Add the remaining 1 cup of whole corn kernels to the sauce. Stir to heat through.
  8. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the glossy sauce. Add more reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, if the sauce seems too thick.
  9. Serve immediately. Garnish your summer pasta recipe with fresh herbs.

Notes

  • Blending a portion of the corn creates the natural starch needed for a creamy aesthetic without relying on heavy cream.
  • Use high-quality, sweet corn for the best flavor in this sweet corn pasta dish.
  • If you want a richer flavor, add 1/4 cup of nutritional yeast along with the Parmesan for a cheesy taste.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://onedishuniverse.com/creamy-corn-pasta-summer-dish/