CORN, TOMATO, AND BASIL PASTA

Corn, Tomato, and Basil Pasta image

Provided by Martha Stewart

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 pound medium shell pasta
Coarse salt
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
3 small leeks, white and light green parts, halved lengthwise, thinly sliced crosswise, and well washed (about 1 1/2 cups)
2 1/2 cups corn kernels (4 to 5 ears)
Freshly ground pepper
1 large pinch red-pepper flakes
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved (or grape tomatoes)
1/2 cup torn basil leaves
1/2 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, leaves
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
4 ounces ricotta salata cheese, crumbled or shaved

Steps:

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add pasta and a generous amount of salt. Cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain, and run under cold water to cool. Drain well; set aside.
In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add leeks, and cook until translucent, 1 to 1 1/2 minutes. Add corn. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook until color is set, and the corn is heated through, 3 to 4 minutes more. Remove from heat; let stand until cool.
In a large bowl, combine pasta, corn mixture, tomatoes, basil, parsley, lemon juice, and cheese. Toss to combine. Taste, and adjust for seasoning.