This Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad is a fresh twist on the beloved Mexican street corn, combining tender pasta with sweet charred corn and all those delicious flavors we love. The creamy, lime-spiked dressing brings the dish together, and the addition of red onion, bell pepper, and Cotija cheese adds texture and depth. It’s the perfect dish for potlucks, summer barbecues, or just as a satisfying side for any meal.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 pound short pasta (rotini, bowties, shells, etc.)

• 2 cups grilled or roasted corn (from 3-4 fresh ears)

• 1/2 cup fresh basil, torn

• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

• 1/2 cup spicy cheddar cheese, diced

• 1 avocado, diced

• 1 head romaine lettuce, shredded

• For the Dressing:

  • 4 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)

  • 1/3 cup sour cream

  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

  • 1-2 cloves garlic, grated

  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise or yogurt

  • 2 tablespoons lime juice

  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 2 tablespoons chili powder

  • 1/2 to 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper (adjust to your preference)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 3/4 cup Cotija or feta cheese, crumbled

• For the Chili Butter:

  • 4 tablespoons salted butter

  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika

  • 1/2 to 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper

  • Salt to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the dressing: In a large salad bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, olive oil, garlic, mayonnaise (or yogurt), lime juice, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

2. Cook the pasta: Bring salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and toss with the dressing while still warm.

3. Add vegetables and cheese: Add lettuce, corn, cheddar cheese, cilantro, basil, and avocado to the pasta. Toss gently.

4. Make the chili butter: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in chili powder, paprika, cayenne, and salt. Cook for 1 minute, then remove from heat.

5. Finish the salad: Drizzle the chili butter over the pasta salad and top with Cotija cheese.

6. Serve: Serve the pasta salad warm or cold. Enjoy!

Nutrients (per serving)

• Calories: 2400-2600 kcal (for the whole recipe)

• Protein: 60-70g

• Fat: 150-170g

• Carbohydrates: 220-240g

A Flavorful Combination of Sweet, Smoky, and Spicy Elements

One of the best things about this Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad is the wonderful combination of sweet, smoky, and spicy elements. The charred corn is the star of the dish, bringing a smoky, slightly sweet flavor that perfectly complements the creamy dressing. Grilling or roasting the corn enhances its natural sweetness while adding that irresistible smoky flavor, making it the perfect base for this salad.

The dressing plays a crucial role in tying the ingredients together. The cream cheese and sour cream create a rich and velvety texture, while the addition of mayonnaise or yogurt adds a tangy note that balances out the richness. The lime juice adds a refreshing zing that cuts through the creaminess, while the smoked paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper provide a spicy kick that elevates the flavors. This dressing coats the pasta and vegetables, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.

Texture and Freshness in Every Bite

What sets this salad apart from others is the wonderful textural contrast between the ingredients. The tender pasta provides a satisfying base, while the charred corn adds a slight crunch and juiciness. The addition of fresh lettuce adds a crisp, refreshing element that complements the creaminess of the dressing. The diced avocado brings smoothness and richness, while the spicy cheddar cheese adds a slight melt-in-your-mouth texture that adds depth to the dish.

The fresh herbs, including basil and cilantro, contribute vibrant flavor and fragrance, enhancing the overall freshness of the dish. Red onion and bell pepper add a bit of crunch and color, creating a delightful contrast to the creaminess of the pasta and the richness of the cheese. With each bite, you’ll enjoy a perfect balance of textures that keep the dish interesting and satisfying.

A Versatile and Customizable Recipe

The Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad is highly versatile and can easily be adjusted to suit your personal taste preferences or dietary needs. For example, if you’re looking to make the dish lighter, you can substitute the sour cream and cream cheese with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative. If you’re not a fan of spicy food, you can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or chili powder to suit your taste, or even omit the chili butter for a milder version of the salad.

If you’re vegetarian or simply looking to add more vegetables, feel free to throw in extra ingredients like cherry tomatoes, corn kernels, or roasted zucchini. The recipe can also be adapted to suit different dietary preferences, such as gluten-free pasta options or vegan cheeses. For those who prefer a heartier salad, you can also add grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a complete meal.

This salad is also a great make-ahead option. The flavors meld and improve after sitting in the fridge for a while, making it an ideal dish to prepare in advance for parties, gatherings, or meal prep. Whether served warm or cold, it’s just as delicious and satisfying.

Perfect for Potlucks and Summer Barbecues

This Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad is an ideal dish for potlucks, barbecues, or any outdoor gathering. It’s the kind of dish that everyone will rave about, and its vibrant colors make it a showstopper on the table. The smoky, sweet, and spicy flavors are a hit with people of all ages, and it’s a great way to add some variety to your picnic or cookout spread.

The salad is also hearty enough to serve as a main dish for those looking for a light meal or a side to accompany grilled meats. Whether you’re serving it alongside burgers, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables, it complements a variety of main dishes and adds a flavorful, satisfying element to your meal.

Packed with Nutrients for a Wholesome Dish

While this Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad is indulgent and full of flavor, it also offers a variety of nutrients to support a balanced diet. The pasta provides a good source of carbohydrates, giving you the energy you need to fuel your day. The fresh vegetables and herbs are loaded with vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium, which contribute to immune health, skin health, and overall wellness.

The corn offers fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you full longer, while the avocado adds healthy monounsaturated fats that support heart health and provide a creamy texture. The Cotija cheese provides calcium and protein, while the spices and chili butter contribute antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, making this salad a flavorful and nutrient-packed choice for any meal.

Conclusion: A Crowd-Pleasing Dish with Bold Flavors

In conclusion, the Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad is a unique and flavorful dish that brings together all the best elements of Mexican street corn in a satisfying pasta salad format. With its creamy dressing, smoky charred corn, and vibrant mix of vegetables, herbs, and spices, this dish offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors that will delight your taste buds. Whether served as a side dish at a barbecue, a potluck favorite, or a refreshing meal on a hot day, this salad is sure to impress.

Its versatility, quick preparation, and ability to be made in advance make it a perfect choice for any gathering or casual meal. So, the next time you’re looking for a dish that’s both crowd-pleasing and full of flavor, give this Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad a try—you won’t regret it!