Delicious Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe for Summer Fun

Street Corn Pasta Salad is like a fiesta in a bowl—a joyous blend of flavors and textures that dance together in perfect harmony. Imagine biting into creamy pasta, sweet corn, and zesty lime, all while being enveloped by the aroma of fresh cilantro. Your taste buds will throw a party, and you’ll want to RSVP for seconds! It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re lounging in the sun at a backyard barbecue, even if you’re stuck inside trying to avoid that mountain of laundry. For more inspiration, check out this creamy lemon shrimp pasta recipe.

Now, let me take you back to my first encounter with this magnificent creation. It was at a potluck where I awkwardly introduced myself while desperately eyeing the food table. Someone brought this street corn pasta salad, and as soon as I took a bite, I knew I had found my culinary soulmate. The combination of flavors was so vibrant that it instantly transported me to a bustling street market filled with laughter and the sizzling sound of grilled corn. cowboy cornbread casserole You’ll want to whip this up for summer picnics, family gatherings, or just because it’s Tuesday and you deserve something delicious!

Ingredients for street corn pasta salad

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

• Pasta: Short pasta varieties like rotini or penne work best; they hold onto the dressing beautifully.
• Fresh Corn: Use sweet corn on the cob for the best flavor; you can grill or boil it depending on your preference.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds brightness; if you’re not a fan, feel free to substitute with parsley.
• Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brings zing; don’t skimp on this ingredient for maximum flavor!
• Red Onion: Finely chopped red onion provides crunch and sharpness; soak it in water if you want to mellow its flavor.
• Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess; Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative.
• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds richness; feel free to use queso fresco for an authentic twist.

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

How to Make street corn pasta salad

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of short pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

While your pasta cooks, grill or boil fresh corn until tender—about 5-7 minutes should do it! Let it cool slightly before cutting kernels off the cob.

Step 3: Mix Your Dressing

In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), freshly squeezed lime juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add cooked pasta, sweet corn kernels, chopped cilantro, diced red onion, and shredded cheese into your mixing bowl with the dressing. Stir gently until everything is nicely coated.

Step 5: Chill

Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or transfer everything into an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least an hour this allows flavors to meld beautifully!

Step 6: Serve

Transfer your vibrant street corn pasta salad onto a serving platter and garnish with extra cilantro or cheese if desired. Enjoy this colorful dish at your next gathering!

Now that you’ve mastered this recipe, get ready for compliments flying your way faster than you can say “street corn pasta salad.” Happy cooking! tortellini pasta salad recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by grilling or roasting your corn to enhance its sweetness, then cook the pasta according to package instructions. While the pasta cooks, mix your dressing and chop your veggies to streamline the process and achieve perfect results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the pasta for a gluten-free variety or add diced bell peppers for extra crunch. Experiment with different cheeses or throw in some black beans for added protein. The possibilities are endless!

Storing & Reheating

Store your street corn pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best taste, enjoy it cold; if reheating, do so gently on low heat to preserve flavors.

The first time I made this street corn pasta salad, my friends devoured it within minutes. They insisted I become their personal chef, which is a compliment I still treasure today!

FAQs:

What ingredients are needed for street corn pasta salad?

To make street corn pasta salad, you will need cooked pasta, fresh corn kernels, diced red onion, cherry tomatoes, jalapeños, cilantro, and feta cheese. For the dressing, gather lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, salt, and pepper. These ingredients combine to create a vibrant flavor profile that reflects traditional street corn while adding a refreshing twist through the pasta.

How long does street corn pasta salad last in the fridge?

Street corn pasta salad can last up to three days in the refrigerator if stored properly in an airtight container. To maintain its freshness and flavor, it is best enjoyed within the first two days. Make sure to stir well before serving as some ingredients may settle or separate during storage.

Can I customize my street corn pasta salad?

Absolutely! You can customize your street corn pasta salad by adding your favorite veggies or proteins. Consider including avocado for creaminess or grilled chicken for added protein. avocado watermelon salad You can also adjust the spice level by adding more jalapeños or using a mild chili powder. Personalizing this dish allows you to create a version that suits your taste preferences.

Is street corn pasta salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, street corn pasta salad is an excellent choice for meal prep! It holds up well in the fridge and is perfect for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week. Cajun chicken pasta Just remember to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent sogginess. This makes it a convenient option for busy schedules.

Conclusion for street corn pasta salad:

In summary, street corn pasta salad is a delightful dish that combines the flavors of traditional Mexican street corn with the heartiness of pasta. With fresh vegetables and a zesty dressing, this recipe offers a nutritious option that’s perfect for gatherings or meal prep. Remember to customize it according to your taste and enjoy its vibrant flavors in just minutes!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Street Corn Pasta Salad

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Clare Schmidt
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines creamy pasta with sweet corn, zesty lime, and aromatic cilantro. Perfect for summer picnics or casual gatherings, this easy-to-make salad will delight your taste buds and impress your guests. With its colorful ingredients and bold flavors, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that can be served as a side or main dish.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups short pasta (e.g., rotini or penne)
• 2 ears fresh corn, kernels removed
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water.
2. Grill or boil the corn until tender (about 5-7 minutes), then cool and cut kernels off the cob.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise (or yogurt), lime juice, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
4. Add cooked pasta, corn kernels, cilantro, red onion, and cheese to the bowl; stir until well combined.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 25mg