Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe
Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the creaminess of a rich dressing with the crunch of fresh vegetables and the kick of spicy seasonings. Perfect for a summer barbecue or as a stand-alone meal, this pasta salad is sure to impress.
- Author: nova
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Salad, Main Course
- Method: Mixing, Grilling, Boiling
- Cuisine: Mexican, American
- Diet: Vegetarian
For the dressing:
- 4 ounces room temperature cream cheese
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1–2 grated garlic cloves
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3/4 cup crumbled cotija or feta cheese
For the salad:
- 1 pound of short pasta
- 1 head romaine lettuce, shredded
- 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
For the chili butter:
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1/2 to 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper, adjust to preference
For the lime mayo dressing:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise or yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- Step 1: Make the Dressing
In a large salad bowl, combine all the ingredients for the dressing. Season to taste with salt and pepper. This will be the base that flavors the entire salad.
- Step 2: Cook the Pasta and Combine Ingredients
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente, then drain and toss with the dressing. Add lettuce, corn, cheddar cheese, basil, cilantro, and avocado. Toss to combine.
- Step 3: Prepare the Chili Butter
Melt butter in a skillet, then stir in spices. Cook briefly and set aside to add a spicy kick to the salad.
- Step 4: Make the Lime Mayo Dressing
Mix mayonnaise or yogurt with lime juice and salt for a creamy dressing.
- Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the salad warm or cold, topped with lime mayo and chili butter. Let sit to enhance flavors.
Notes
- You can customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper in the chili butter.
- This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a few days.
- Feel free to add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: Street Corn Pasta Salad, Creamy Pasta Salad, Summer Pasta Salad, Mexican Pasta Salad