Flavor-Packed Street Corn Pasta Salad for Summer Fun

Street Corn Pasta Salad A Creamy Zesty Summer Side Dish Bursting with Flavor is like a summer party in a bowl. Picture this: vibrant corn kernels dancing with creamy dressing, zesty lime, and just the right amount of spice. The aroma wafts through the air, teasing your taste buds and promising an explosion of flavor that’s simply irresistible.

This dish is not just food; it’s an experience. I remember the first time I made this salad; it was for a backyard barbecue. The sun was shining, laughter echoed around me, and when my friends took their first bite, their eyes lit up like they’d just found a treasure chest. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or even a cozy dinner on your patio.

I once brought this salad to a picnic where my friend declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” Honestly, who doesn’t love compliments like that?

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: Use short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli for good texture and easy mixing.

• Fresh Corn: Opt for sweet corn on the cob for the best sweetness and crunch.

• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness; use generously if you love its flavor.

• Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice enhances the zesty flavor profile; bottled won’t cut it here.

• Mayonnaise: A creamy base that binds everything together; choose full-fat for richness.

• Chili Powder: Adds a subtle kick without overpowering; adjust based on your heat preference.

• Green Onions: These provide a mild onion flavor and vibrant color contrast in the salad.

• Cheese (Cotija or Feta): Crumbled cheese brings creaminess and umami; Cotija is traditional but feta works too.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors in your salad.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

Prepare the Corn: While pasta cooks, grill or boil corn until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Let cool before cutting kernels off the cob into a bowl.

Create the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. This will be your creamy sauce.

Combine Everything: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, corn kernels, cilantro, green onions, and crumbled cheese. Pour dressing over and mix gently to coat.

Taste Test: Give your salad a taste! Adjust seasoning with more lime juice or salt as desired to balance flavors perfectly before serving.

Enjoy every delightful bite of your Street Corn Pasta Salad A Creamy Zesty Summer Side Dish Bursting with Flavor!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling pasta until al dente while grilling or charring fresh corn for that smoky flavor. Mix the two together with the dressing and let it chill for optimal taste.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ingredients! Try adding diced bell peppers for crunch or jalapeños for heat. A sprinkle of feta cheese adds a delightful creaminess too.

Storing & Reheating

Store your salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best results, enjoy it cold and avoid reheating to maintain freshness.

It’s funny how my friends always ask for this recipe at gatherings. Last summer, I made a massive bowl, and it vanished before I could even get a serving!

FAQ

What is the best pasta to use for Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Short pastas like fusilli or rotini hold dressings well, enhancing flavor.

Can I make Street Corn Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it a day in advance to allow flavors to develop nicely.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the dressing?

You can use Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter option without sacrificing creaminess.

Print

Street Corn Pasta Salad

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• Author: Ethan Brooks
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful summer side dish that combines creamy mayonnaise with sweet corn, zesty lime, and a hint of spice. Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or cozy dinners, this easy-to-make salad will be the star of your next gathering. Its colorful ingredients not only please the palate but also make it visually appealing. Enjoy every delightful bite of this refreshing dish!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz short pasta (penne or fusilli)
• 2 cups fresh corn (about 2 ears)
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• ¼ cup lime juice (freshly squeezed)
• ½ cup mayonnaise (full-fat)
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 2 green onions, sliced
• ½ cup crumbled Cotija or feta cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. While the pasta cooks, grill or boil the corn for 5-7 minutes until tender. Let cool before cutting kernels off the cob.
3. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. In a large bowl, mix cooled pasta, corn kernels, cilantro, green onions, and cheese. Pour dressing over and gently combine.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: For added crunch, consider mixing in diced bell peppers or jalapeños for heat. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; enjoy cold for best flavor.