Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stirred the rich, creamy dressing into a bowl of al dente pasta, the sweet aroma of charred corn transported me straight to a lively Mexican street market. This Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad is my favorite twist on tradition, combining the nostalgic flavors of the beloved street snack into a delightful side dish. Perfect for summer potlucks or cozy family gatherings, it’s incredibly versatile—you can serve it warm or cold, making it a hit any time of year. With its hidden crunch from fresh bell peppers and chives, along with a zesty lime kick, this salad is not only easy to prepare but also a true crowd-pleaser. Are you ready to elevate your next meal with this irresistible delight? Why is This Street Corn Pasta Salad Special? Irresistible Flavor: This pasta salad marries the sweetness of charred corn with a rich cream cheese dressing, resulting in a flavor explosion that won’t disappoint. Versatile Serving Options: Whether you serve it warm or cold, this dish is extremely adaptable, perfect for any occasion. Pair it with grilled chicken skewers or even enjoy it solo! Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip this up, making it a great weeknight meal or potluck dish. Crowd-Pleaser: With its unique combination of ingredients, from spicy cheddar to zesty lime, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Explore other refreshing recipes like Tomato Salad or a vibrant Watermelon Cucumber Salad for a complete summer feast! Street Corn Pasta Salad Ingredients • Dive into deliciousness with these simple components! For the Dressing Cream Cheese – Provides a creamy base; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy blending. Sour Cream – Adds a tangy creaminess that perfectly balances the flavors. Extra Virgin Olive Oil – This emulsifier gives richness to the dressing. Garlic – Fresh garlic enhances the aromatic profile; opt for fresh cloves for best results. Chives – Offers a mild onion flavor; substitute with green onions if desired. Cotija/Feta Cheese – Provides a salty, crumbly texture; ricotta can work if needed. For the Pasta Salad Short Pasta – The foundation of this dish; cook al dente for the best bite. Romaine Lettuce – Adds crunch and freshness; spinach can be a delightful substitute. Corn – Sweet, charred corn elevates flavor; use fresh for the finest taste, but frozen works in a pinch. Basil – Fresh herbs provide aromatic brightness; torn leaves deliver optimal flavor. Cilantro – A bright, fresh herb that adds character; feel free to omit if it’s not your favorite. Spicy Cheddar Cheese – Brings the heat; swap for regular cheddar for a milder version. Avocado – Adds a creamy texture; incorporate just before serving to avoid browning. For the Chili Butter Salted Butter – Richness is key; use for the chili butter sauce. Smoked Paprika, Chili Powder, Cayenne Pepper – These spices enhance the flavor; adjust cayenne for your preferred heat level. For the Lime Dressing Mayonnaise/Yogurt – Creates the tangy dressing base; you can adjust lime juice according to your taste. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Step 1: Prepare the Dressing In a large salad bowl, blend room temperature cream cheese, sour cream, and extra virgin olive oil using a whisk or electric mixer for about 2-3 minutes until smooth and creamy. Add minced garlic, chopped chives, and a pinch of salt and pepper, mixing until well combined. This creamy dressing will serve as the flavorful base for your Street Corn Pasta Salad. Step 2: Cook Pasta Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your short pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and immediately toss it with the dressing in the large bowl while it’s still warm. This helps the pasta absorb the flavors beautifully. Step 3: Add Salad Ingredients To the warm pasta, mix in shredded romaine lettuce, grilled corn, fresh basil, chopped cilantro, spicy cheddar cheese, and diced avocado. Use two large spoons to gently toss the ingredients together until evenly combined. The warmth from the pasta will bring out the flavors of the fresh ingredients in this delightfully vibrant Street Corn Pasta Salad. Step 4: Make the Chili Butter In a small skillet over medium heat, melt salted butter until it turns golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in smoked paprika, chili powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper, allowing them to bloom in the hot butter for about a minute. Remove from heat, and let your zesty chili butter sit while you finish preparing the salad. Step 5: Prepare Lime Dressing In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise or yogurt with freshly squeezed lime juice and a pinch of salt. Mix until creamy and well combined, tasting to adjust seasoning as needed. This tangy lime dressing adds a refreshing zing to your Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad, balancing the richness of the cheese and butter. Step 6: Serve Drizzle the lime dressing over the mixed salad and gently toss to incorporate. Pour the warm chili butter over the top for a final flavor boost. Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving. This creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad is perfect for your next gathering! Street Corn Pasta Salad Variations Feel free to get creative and tailor this dish to suit your taste buds and dietary needs! Vegetable Boost: Substitute corn with diced bell peppers for added crunch and color. The vibrant flavors and textures elevate the whole salad, making each bite delightful. Greek Twist: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a tangier dressing that’s packed with protein. It’s a deliciously refreshing swap that brings another layer of flavor. Cheese Swap: Replace Cotija cheese with tangy goat cheese for a unique twist. The creamy texture of goat cheese can give your pasta salad a delightful new charm. Fresh Tomato Addition: Toss in diced tomatoes for a burst of freshness. Their juicy texture complements the creamy dressing beautifully, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs by substituting basil with dill or parsley. Each herb brings its own special aroma, making the salad refreshing in different ways. Heat It Up: Add minced jalapeños for an extra kick! Their heat contrasts perfectly with the creamy elements, creating an exciting flavor boost for spice lovers. Nutty Flavor: Mix in toasted walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture and added depth. The nuts provide a satisfying bite that makes the salad even more enjoyable. Vegan Delight: For a vegan version, replace dairy ingredients with a plant-based cream cheese, coconut yogurt, and omit cheese. This way, you can enjoy a creamy texture without animal products. These variations can elevate your Street Corn Pasta Salad even further. If the idea of flavor combinations excites you, don’t forget to check out other summery recipes like Creamy Pesto Chicken Broccoli Pasta or a colorful Tzatziki Cucumber Salad to round out your meal! Expert Tips for Street Corn Pasta Salad Room Temperature Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for effortless blending into the dressing, ensuring a creamy texture. Pasta Timing: Don’t cook the pasta too far in advance; toss it in olive oil right after draining to prevent clumping and enhance flavor absorption. Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh corn for a sweet, smoky taste; if fresh isn’t available, frozen corn can be a great alternative without sacrificing flavor. Seasoning Check: Always taste along the way! Cold dishes can mute flavors, so adjust the lime and spices before serving your delicious Street Corn Pasta Salad. Avocado Magic: Add avocado just before serving to keep it vibrant and prevent browning, ensuring every bite is fresh and creamy. Storage Tips for Street Corn Pasta Salad Fridge: Store the salad in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This retains the freshness and creaminess, but remember to add avocado just before serving to prevent browning. Freezer: Although it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the pasta salad without the avocado for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. Reheating: If you prefer to eat it warm, gently reheat the pasta salad in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil if needed for moisture. Serving: Enjoy this flavorful Street Corn Pasta Salad cold or warm, making it a versatile dish for any occasion! What to Serve with Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad This delightful pasta salad invites a symphony of flavors and textures that can easily elevate your meal experience. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy and slightly charred, these skewers add a savory contrast that pairs beautifully with the creamy salad. They bring a delightful smokiness to your table that enhances the overall dining experience. Tortilla Chips and Guacamole: Crisp and refreshing, the crunch of tortilla chips paired with creamy guacamole provides a satisfying texture. This combo makes for a fun appetizer or side, perfect for when you’re entertaining friends. Blackened Shrimp: Succulent shrimp seasoned with spices add a kick that harmonizes perfectly with the creamy and zesty pasta salad. Their bold flavors create a well-rounded dish that transports your taste buds to vibrant coastal getaways. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of colorful, roasted vegetables introduces a hearty component, bringing in fiber and nutrients. Their earthy flavors beautifully complement the sweet corn and vibrant herbs found in the salad. Mexican Street Corn on the Cob: Elevate your meal to a true fiesta with the classic street food staple! The combination of buttery, smoky corn adds layers of flavor that unify the whole experience. Sparkling Water with Lime: Stay refreshed with a citrusy drink that enhances the palette. The crispness of sparkling water with a lime wedge echoes the bright flavors in the pasta salad without overpowering it. Make Ahead Options These Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook and cool the pasta up to 24 hours in advance, toss it with a little olive oil to keep it from sticking. The grilled corn can also be prepped ahead; just refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Similarly, prepare the dressing (mixing cream cheese, sour cream, olive oil, garlic, and chives) up to a day before serving, storing it in the fridge for freshness. When ready to serve, simply combine the pasta, corn, and dressing, then add the remaining veggies and drizzle with the chili butter for a delightful dish that’s just as delicious as when freshly made! Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best corn for my salad? Absolutely! When selecting corn, look for ears that are plump and filled with bright, golden kernels. The husk should be green and tightly wrapped. If you notice any dark spots or blemishes, choose another ear. Fresh corn will offer the sweetest and most flavorful taste in your salad! How long can I store Street Corn Pasta Salad in the fridge? This delightful salad can be safely stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just remember to add the avocado fresh before serving to keep it vibrant and prevent browning. Enjoy it chilled for a refreshing meal! Can I freeze Street Corn Pasta Salad? Certainly! To freeze the salad, omit the avocado and store it in an airtight container for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. If it seems a bit dry after thawing, you can add a splash of olive oil or a bit of dressing before serving to revive its creaminess. What if my pasta is clumping after cooking? No worries, this can happen! If your pasta clumps together, try tossing it with a bit of olive oil immediately after draining to separate the strands. If it’s already assembled with the dressing, you can use two forks to gently break it apart and loosen it. A bit of extra dressing can also help! Are there any dietary restrictions to consider for this recipe? Very! This salad can be easily modified for allergies or dietary preferences. For a dairy-free option, you can use a plant-based cream cheese and substitute the cheeses with vegan alternatives. If you have gluten sensitivities, opt for gluten-free pasta. Always check ingredient labels for specific allergens before serving! What should I do if I have too much dressing? If you find yourself with extra dressing, no problem! Store it in a separate container in the fridge for up to 1 week and use it on other salads or as a dip for veggies. It’s a versatile dressing that can enhance a variety of dishes! Street Corn Pasta Salad: Creamy, Zesty, and Irresistibly Good This Street Corn Pasta Salad combines creamy dressing, charred corn, and fresh veggies for a flavor-packed side dish. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsResting Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: SaladCuisine: MexicanCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Dressing8 oz Cream Cheese room temperature1 cup Sour Cream3 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil2 cloves Garlic minced1 tbsp Chives chopped1 cup Cotija/Feta Cheese crumbledFor the Pasta Salad12 oz Short Pasta cook al dente2 cups Romaine Lettuce shredded3 cups Corn charred1 cup Basil fresh, torn1 cup Cilantro chopped1 cup Spicy Cheddar Cheese shredded1 medium Avocado dicedFor the Chili Butter4 tbsp Salted Butter melted1 tsp Smoked Paprika1 tsp Chili Powder1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper adjust for heatFor the Lime Dressing1/2 cup Mayonnaise/Yogurt2 tbsp Lime Juice freshly squeezed Equipment large salad bowlskilletWhiskColander Method Prepare the DressingIn a large salad bowl, blend room temperature cream cheese, sour cream, and extra virgin olive oil using a whisk or electric mixer for about 2-3 minutes until smooth and creamy.Add minced garlic, chopped chives, and a pinch of salt and pepper, mixing until well combined.Cook PastaBring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.Add your short pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes.Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and immediately toss it with the dressing in the large bowl while it's still warm.Add Salad IngredientsTo the warm pasta, mix in shredded romaine lettuce, grilled corn, fresh basil, chopped cilantro, spicy cheddar cheese, and diced avocado.Use two large spoons to gently toss the ingredients together until evenly combined.Make the Chili ButterIn a small skillet over medium heat, melt salted butter until it turns golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.Stir in smoked paprika, chili powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper, allowing them to bloom in the hot butter for about a minute.Prepare Lime DressingIn a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise or yogurt with freshly squeezed lime juice and a pinch of salt.Mix until creamy and well combined, tasting to adjust seasoning as needed.ServeDrizzle the lime dressing over the mixed salad and gently toss to incorporate.Pour the warm chili butter over the top for a final flavor boost.Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 8gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 320mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 450IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1.2mg NotesAdd avocado just before serving to keep it vibrant and prevent browning. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
