Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my bustling kitchen, the sweet scent of summer filled the air, instantly transporting me to sun-drenched days of lazy picnics and vibrant farmers’ markets. Today, I’m thrilled to share my creamy summery pappardelle with corn and basil sauce, a dish that beautifully captures the essence of those sunny afternoons. This vegetarian pasta recipe is not only quick to prepare, but it also dazzles your taste buds with a luxurious, silky sauce that perfectly hugs each wide ribbon of pappardelle pasta. Enhanced by the natural sweetness of fresh corn and bursting cherry tomatoes, it’s an elevated yet effortless dish that your whole family will love. Curious how to bring a slice of summertime to your dinner table? Let’s dive in! Why is this recipe a summer must-try? Creamy Comfort: The pappardelle pasta creates a wonderful base for the velvety basil cream sauce, ensuring each bite is a delight. Fresh Ingredients: Sweet corn and juicy cherry tomatoes make this dish vibrant and reflective of summer’s bounty. Quick Prep Time: Perfect for busy weeknights, this meal comes together in under 30 minutes—ideal for those who want homemade goodness without the fuss! Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish impresses everyone at the table. Consider serving it with a fresh green salad dressed with vinaigrette for a complete meal. Versatile Flavor: While delicious on its own, feel free to toss in some grilled shrimp or chicken for added protein, or try adding seasonal vegetables like zucchini for an extra nutritional boost! Pappardelle Pasta Ingredients • Get ready to experience summer in a bowl with these simple ingredients! For the Basil Cream Sauce Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Adds richness and flavor; substitute with avocado oil for a neutral taste. Corn – Fresh corn kernels provide sweetness and creaminess; frozen corn works well too if fresh isn’t available. Water – Helps blend the sauce to your desired consistency. Mascarpone Cheese – Creates a luscious, creamy texture; cream cheese or a dairy-free alternative can be used for a lighter option. Basil – Fresh basil imparts a fragrant, herbal note; parsley or spinach can be swapped in a pinch. For the Pasta and Toppings Pappardelle Pasta – The wide noodles are perfect for holding sauce; fettuccine or tagliatelle are good substitutes. Cherry Tomatoes – Adds juiciness and acidity; grape tomatoes or halved larger tomatoes can be used instead. Red Onion – Provides sweetness and depth when sautéed; yellow or sweet onion can be alternatives. Parmigiano Reggiano – Offers a nutty and salty flavor; Grana Padano or nutritional yeast works for a dairy-free version. Kosher Salt – Enhances all flavors of the dish. Freshly Cracked Black Pepper – Delivers a spicy kick; adjust the quantity based on your preference. Flaky Sea Salt – Ideal for finishing touches, adding texture and flavor. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Pappardelle Pasta with Sweet Corn & Basil Bliss Step 1: Prepare Pasta Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the pappardelle pasta and cook until al dente, which should take about 9 minutes. As the pasta cooks, reserve ½ cup of the starchy cooking water to help adjust the sauce later. Drain the pasta while it’s still slightly firm to the bite. Step 2: Sauté Onions and Corn In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Add chopped red onion and sauté for about 2 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Next, stir in the fresh corn kernels, seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper, and cook for an additional 3 minutes until the corn is tender and slightly caramelized. Step 3: Make Basil Cream Sauce Transfer the sautéed onions and corn into a blender. Add mascarpone cheese, along with a handful of fresh basil leaves. Blend the mixture on high until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. Taste the basil cream sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or a touch of water for desired consistency. Step 4: Blister Tomatoes Using the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and raise the heat to medium-high. Toss in halved cherry tomatoes and let them cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are blistered and slightly softened. This enhances their natural sweetness, adding vibrant flavor to your creamy pappardelle dish. Step 5: Combine Reduce the heat to medium and add the drained pappardelle pasta to the skillet with blistered tomatoes. Pour the basil cream sauce over the pasta, gently stirring to coat each ribbon of pappardelle completely. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually incorporate the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired creamy consistency. Step 6: Serve Once everything is well combined and heated through, plate the creamy pappardelle pasta immediately. Drizzle with an extra splash of olive oil, sprinkle additional grated Parmigiano Reggiano, and garnish with sliced basil. Finish with freshly cracked black pepper and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt to elevate every delicious bite! Pappardelle Pasta Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with these delightful twists! Protein Boost: Add grilled shrimp or chicken for extra protein and a satisfying heartiness to the dish. It’s a wonderful way to turn this vegetarian delight into a family feast! Vegetable Medley: Toss in zucchini, bell peppers, or even arugula for a burst of color and added nutrition. Each additional veggie brings its unique flavor and texture, making the dish even more vibrant. Vegan Option: Swap out the mascarpone cheese for a vegan cream cheese or cashew cream for a decadent dairy-free version. You won’t miss the creaminess at all with these alternatives! Flavor Infusion: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat that elevates the dish. This little kick pairs beautifully with the sweetness of corn. Herb Enhancements: Try mixing in a touch of fresh dill or chives with the basil for an extra layer of flavor. This opens up a world of aromatic possibilities! Nutty Finish: Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for a lovely crunch that beautifully complements the creaminess. This contrast in texture takes the dish to a new dimension. Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Incorporate chopped sun-dried tomatoes for an intense burst of umami flavor and added complexity. Their tangy sweetness harmonizes beautifully with the corn. For more delightful inspirations, don’t forget to check out our Deviled Egg Pasta or try a vibrant Vegan Pink Pasta next time for a fun twist! Storage Tips for Pappardelle Pasta Fridge: Store leftover creamy pappardelle pasta in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier upon reheating. Freezer: If you need to freeze, package the pasta without the sauce in an airtight freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water to revive the creamy sauce and prevent it from becoming dry. Texture Management: For the best flavor experience, consume your pappardelle pasta within a few days; this helps maintain its delightful texture and vibrant flavors. What to Serve with Creamy Summery Pappardelle with Corn & Basil Cream Sauce As you savor this velvety pasta dish, think about how the right sides and drinks can elevate your meal into an unforgettable experience. Light Green Salad: A refreshing salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette balances the rich creaminess of the pasta. Crisp, fresh greens are the perfect contrast. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside, soft within, buttery garlic bread provides a delightful texture that’s simply irresistible when paired with the creamy sauce. Grilled Vegetables: Smoky, grilled zucchini and bell peppers offer a wonderful depth of flavor while adding healthy elements to your meal. Their charred taste mirrors the fresh summer vibes. White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc enhances the dish beautifully, with its zesty acidity cutting through the creamy sauce and complementing the corn’s sweetness. Peach Caprese Salad: Juicy peaches, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction create a sweet and savory explosion that brings a seasonally inspired flair. Fruit Sorbet: Clean and brightly flavored, a scoop of raspberry or lemon sorbet serves as a refreshing palate cleanser after the rich pasta dish. Each spoonful feels like summer. Lemonade or Iced Tea: These refreshing beverages are perfect companions to the meal, quenching your thirst while bringing lightness to the dining experience. Their flavors pair harmoniously with the vibrant notes of the sauce. Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich chocolate mousse for dessert; its creaminess parallels the pasta’s texture while offering a delightful sweet finish to the meal. Make Ahead Options These Creamy Pappardelle with Corn & Basil Sauce are perfect for meal prep! You can sauté the onions and corn up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate them in an airtight container. The basil cream sauce can also be made ahead; simply blend it as directed and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. To ensure freshness, add a thin layer of olive oil on top of the sauce before sealing the container, which helps prevent browning. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat the sautéed veggies, cook your pappardelle, and combine everything with the sauce for delicious results that are just as creamy and vibrant as if made fresh! Expert Tips for Pappardelle Pasta Finish in Skillet: Always complete the cooking of your pappardelle pasta in the skillet with the sauce. This ensures better flavor integration and prevents clumping. Use Starchy Water: Reserve extra pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency. A little starchy water enhances the creaminess of the sauce when adding it back into the dish. Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh corn and basil is key to elevate the dish. If fresh isn’t available, frozen corn works well too, but fresh basil is irreplaceable for that aromatic flavor. Adjust Seasoning Carefully: Taste your basil cream sauce while blending, and season it gradually. This helps you achieve the perfect balance without overwhelming the dish. Garnish for Appeal: Don’t skip the finishing touches! A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, more cheese, and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt adds a beautiful finishing touch and extra flavor. Creamy Pappardelle Pasta with Sweet Corn & Basil Bliss Recipe FAQs What type of corn is best for this dish? Absolutely! Fresh sweet corn kernels are ideal because they add natural sweetness and creaminess to the sauce. If fresh corn is unavailable, using frozen corn works great too! Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the skillet. How should I store leftover pappardelle pasta? Leftover creamy pappardelle pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just remember that the flavors will continue to meld, making the dish even more delicious upon reheating. Can I freeze creamy pappardelle pasta? Yes, you can freeze the dish! However, it’s best to freeze the pasta without the sauce. Place the cooked pappardelle in an airtight freezer bag and store it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently. What should I do if my sauce is too thick? No worries! If your basil cream sauce comes out too thick, simply add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time while mixing until you reach your desired consistency. The starchy water helps achieve that creamy texture without being overly rich. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? This dish is vegetarian, but if you or someone you’re serving has dairy allergies, you can substitute the mascarpone and Parmigiano Reggiano with dairy-free alternatives. For pets, always avoid feeding pasta and creamy sauces as they can upset their stomachs. How can I enhance the flavor profile of this dish? To elevate it even further, consider adding grilled shrimp or chicken for protein. You can also mix in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor without compromising the delicious essence of this creamy pappardelle. Creamy Pappardelle Pasta with Sweet Corn & Basil Bliss No ratings yet This delicious creamy pappardelle pasta with sweet corn is a quick and vibrant summer dish that everyone will enjoy. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 550 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Basil Cream Sauce2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil Substitute with avocado oil for a neutral taste.2 cups Corn Fresh corn kernels provide sweetness, frozen works too.0.5 cups Water Helps blend the sauce to desired consistency.8 ounces Mascarpone Cheese Creamy texture; can substitute with cream cheese for lighter option.1 cup Basil Fresh for best flavor; can use parsley or spinach in a pinch.For the Pasta and Toppings12 ounces Pappardelle Pasta Fettuccine or tagliatelle are good substitutes.1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Grape tomatoes or halved larger tomatoes can be used.1 medium Red Onion Provides sweetness; yellow or sweet onion can be alternatives.0.5 cups Parmigiano Reggiano Grana Padano or nutritional yeast for dairy-free.1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Enhances flavors.1 teaspoon Freshly Cracked Black Pepper Adjust quantity based on preference.1 teaspoon Flaky Sea Salt Ideal for finishing touches. Equipment large potSkilletblender Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the pappardelle pasta and cook until al dente, about 9 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of the starchy cooking water, then drain the pasta.In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sauté chopped red onion for about 2 minutes until translucent. Stir in fresh corn, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook for 3 minutes until tender.Transfer the sautéed onions and corn to a blender. Add mascarpone cheese and fresh basil. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down sides as needed. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or water.In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and increase heat to medium-high. Add halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until blistered.Reduce heat to medium, add drained pappardelle to the skillet with tomatoes. Pour the basil cream sauce over the pasta, stirring gently to coat. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until desired consistency.Plate the creamy pappardelle immediately. Drizzle with olive oil, garnish with additional grated Parmigiano Reggiano, sliced basil, cracked black pepper, and flaky sea salt. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 70gProtein: 15gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesFresh ingredients yield the best flavor. Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Finish the dish with garnishes for appeal. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
