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Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

4.8 from 24 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

For the dressing:

  • 4 ounces room temperature cream cheese
  • 1/3 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 12 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 34 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

Instructions

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. Step 4: Make the Lime Mayo Dressing

    Mix mayonnaise or yogurt with lime juice and salt for a creamy dressing.

  5. 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

Keywords: Street Corn Pasta Salad, Creamy Pasta Salad, Summer Pasta Salad, Mexican Pasta Salad