Street Corn Pasta Salad

This Street Corn Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines the sweetness of corn with the creaminess of the dressing, creating the perfect side dish for any gathering. The cotija cheese adds a salty depth to the salad, while the fresh cilantro and lime juice provide a refreshing balance to the richness. Whether you’re serving it at a BBQ, picnic, or family dinner, this salad is sure to be a hit!

The flavors of this dish are reminiscent of street corn (elote) but in a pasta salad form, making it an exciting twist on a classic favorite. The charred corn adds a smoky depth, while the creamy dressing brings it all together for a satisfying and flavorful experience. Best of all, it’s quick to make and perfect for those hot summer days when you want something fresh and filling.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

12 oz (340g) pasta (rotini or your favorite type)
2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 red onion, diced
1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sour cream
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

Cook pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool. Set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add corn kernels and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until lightly charred. Remove from heat and let cool.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, charred corn, red onion, cotija cheese, and chopped cilantro.
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Street Corn Pasta Salad: The Ultimate Summer Side Dish

When the sun is shining and the temperatures are high, there’s nothing quite like a light yet satisfying pasta salad to bring joy to your summer gatherings. One of the standout dishes that has taken both BBQs and potlucks by storm is Street Corn Pasta Salad. This vibrant dish takes inspiration from the popular Mexican street food, elote (grilled street corn), and transforms it into a creamy, flavorful pasta salad that will be the highlight of any meal.

The Inspiration Behind Street Corn Pasta Salad

The origins of this recipe come from elote, a beloved Mexican street food where corn on the cob is slathered in creamy mayo, sprinkled with tangy lime juice, dusted with chili powder, and topped with crumbled cotija cheese. It’s an irresistible combination of flavors that perfectly balances sweetness, creaminess, saltiness, and spice.

What makes this pasta salad so special is that it captures all the rich, smoky flavors of traditional street corn but in a cool, refreshing, and easy-to-serve salad form. It combines pasta, charred corn, creamy dressing, and zesty lime to create a dish that’s both filling and bursting with flavor.

The Perfect Summer Side Dish

Street Corn Pasta Salad is more than just a simple side; it’s a versatile dish that pairs perfectly with almost anything. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, having a picnic in the park, or just looking for a quick meal for your family, this pasta salad fits the bill. The sweetness of the corn pairs beautifully with grilled meats like chicken, steak, or pork, and it also complements seafood dishes like grilled shrimp or fish tacos. It’s equally delicious when served alongside veggie burgers, making it a perfect addition to any vegetarian or vegan-friendly meal.

One of the best parts about this salad is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, it’s easy to whip up for last-minute gatherings. The salad also benefits from being made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to marinate and develop even further. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep and ensures that you’re never caught without a delicious side dish.

Why This Recipe Works So Well

Fresh Ingredients and Bright Flavors

The key to making this dish stand out is the balance of fresh ingredients. The corn kernels are first charred in a hot skillet, which imparts a deliciously smoky flavor that enhances the overall dish. The lime juice adds a refreshing acidity that cuts through the creaminess of the dressing and brings a burst of brightness. The fresh cilantro adds a herbaceous note, complementing the corn and lime beautifully. Meanwhile, the cotija cheese brings a salty richness that binds the salad together. It’s these vibrant, complementary flavors that make this pasta salad so addictive.

The Creamy Dressing

What sets this pasta salad apart from many others is the creamy dressing. The combination of mayonnaise and sour cream creates a smooth base that perfectly coats the pasta and corn. The dressing not only enhances the flavors but also provides the salad with a rich texture. A pinch of chili powder adds just the right amount of heat, bringing warmth to the salad without overwhelming the other ingredients. The beauty of the dressing lies in its simplicity it’s tangy, creamy, and just spicy enough to keep your taste buds interested.

Texture and Contrast

When it comes to a good pasta salad, texture is everything. Street Corn Pasta Salad hits all the right notes. The pasta provides a satisfying chew, while the charred corn offers a pop of sweetness and crunch. The red onion adds a bit of sharpness and a slight crunch, while the crumbled cotija cheese brings a creamy, crumbly element. The cilantro not only adds flavor but also adds a fresh crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the dressing. It’s a dish that’s a joy to eat with every bite.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Street Corn Pasta Salad isn’t just great for special occasions – it also makes an excellent meal prep dish. Since it holds up well in the refrigerator for several days, it’s a fantastic option for making ahead of time. You can prepare a big batch and store it in the fridge for a few days. It will keep well, allowing the flavors to develop and intensify. This makes it a great choice for busy weeks when you need a quick, satisfying lunch or dinner option.

Additionally, this salad is highly customizable. If you like a little extra heat, you can sprinkle in some jalapeños or add a dash more chili powder. For a creamier version, try adding more mayo or sour cream. You could even experiment with other types of cheese, like feta, if cotija isn’t available. The options are endless, and this dish is flexible enough to suit a variety of tastes.

Pairing Ideas

This pasta salad is an incredibly versatile dish that pairs with almost anything. Here are some ideas for meals that would go perfectly with Street Corn Pasta Salad:

Grilled Chicken – A simple grilled chicken breast, brushed with a little lime and chili powder, is a perfect pairing for this creamy pasta salad.
BBQ Ribs – The smoky flavors of BBQ ribs are complemented beautifully by the fresh and creamy street corn salad.
Fish Tacos – The lightness of fish tacos, especially grilled or battered white fish, pairs wonderfully with the bright, zesty flavors of the salad.
Veggie Burgers – For a vegetarian option, serve the salad with veggie burgers made from black beans or quinoa. The creamy pasta salad will bring balance to the savory flavors of the burger.
Grilled Shrimp – Lightly seasoned shrimp, cooked on the grill, will add a seafood twist that complements the fresh and flavorful pasta salad.

Why You’ll Love Street Corn Pasta Salad

Simple Ingredients: With easy-to-find ingredients, this salad is quick to prepare and perfect for busy summer days.
Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a dish that appeals to everyone, whether they’re meat-eaters or vegetarians, and it’s easy to make in large batches for gatherings.
Versatile: Whether you enjoy it as a side or as the main event, this salad is endlessly customizable. You can adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand.
Perfect for Summer: The bright, fresh flavors make it the ideal dish for BBQs, picnics, and other summer gatherings.
Great for Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, you’re in luck – this pasta salad tastes just as good the next day (or even the day after!).

Conclusion:

Street Corn Pasta Salad is a fun, flavorful dish that combines the best of summer flavors. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or just looking for a quick and easy side for dinner, this dish is sure to become a staple in your summer recipe collection. Its balance of creaminess, crunch, and spice makes it a standout side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Serve it up at your next gathering and watch it disappear off the plate! With its fresh ingredients, simple preparation, and big flavor, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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