If you are craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor, color, and a delightful mix of textures, you have to try this Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe. This lively salad combines the sweet char of grilled corn with a luscious creamy dressing, fresh herbs, and a hint of spice, all tossed with tender pasta and crisp romaine. It’s a perfect blend of comfort and freshness that makes for an irresistible side or even a main on warmer days, bringing a vibrant street-food vibe right to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients that come together effortlessly to create a deliciously rich and balanced dish. Each component adds an important layer of flavor, color, or texture, making the final salad truly unforgettable.
- Cream cheese (4 ounces, room temperature): Provides a smooth, creamy base that binds the dressing beautifully.
- Sour cream (1/3 cup): Adds tanginess and a velvety texture to the dressing.
- Extra virgin olive oil (2 tablespoons): Brings richness and a fruity depth to the flavor profile.
- Grated garlic cloves (1-2): Packs a punch of sharpness and aromatic warmth.
- Fresh chives (1 tablespoon, chopped): Offers a mild onion flavor for a fresh herbal note.
- Salt and pepper: Essential to enhance all other flavors in the salad.
- Cotija or feta cheese (3/4 cup, crumbled): Adds a salty, crumbly texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy elements.
- Short pasta (1 pound): The hearty base that holds the dressing and mix-ins perfectly.
- Romaine lettuce (1 head, shredded): Provides a crisp, refreshing crunch.
- Grilled or roasted corn (2 cups): Brings a smoky sweetness and vibrant color.
- Fresh basil (1/2 cup, torn): Contributes a sweet, peppery herbaceousness.
- Fresh cilantro (1/2 cup, chopped): Layers in a bright, citrusy aroma.
- Spicy cheddar cheese (1/2 cup, diced): Adds a creamy, spicy kick.
- Avocado (1, diced): Offers buttery creaminess and balances the spice.
- Salted butter (4 tablespoons): Used to create a rich chili butter topping.
- Smoked paprika (2 teaspoons): Gives a warming, smoky flavor.
- Chili powder (2 tablespoons): Delivers an earthy, spicy depth.
- Cayenne pepper (1/2 to 2 teaspoons): Adjustable heat to your liking.
- Mayonnaise or yogurt (1/4 cup): Used in the lime mayo dressing for creaminess and tang.
- Lime juice (2 tablespoons): Infuses the dish with bright acidity.
How to Make Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe
Step 1: Make the Dressing
In a large salad bowl, start by combining the cream cheese, sour cream, olive oil, garlic, fresh chives, salt, and pepper. Whisk these ingredients until smooth and creamy—the dressing is the heart of this salad, creating a luscious coating that brings all the components together with a zesty, savory punch.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta and Combine Ingredients
Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the short pasta until it’s just al dente, making sure it still has a little bite for texture. Drain and immediately toss the pasta in the creamy dressing you prepared, letting each piece soak up that flavor. Next, add shredded romaine lettuce, grilled corn, diced spicy cheddar, torn basil, chopped cilantro, and creamy avocado. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to coat evenly, ensuring every forkful delights you with color and flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Chili Butter
Melt the salted butter in a skillet over medium heat, watching carefully until it turns golden and fragrant. Stir in the chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt. Cook for about a minute to toast the spices and develop a rich, smoky aroma before removing it from heat. This chili butter will add a beautiful, spicy finishing touch that elevates the entire salad.
Step 4: Make the Lime Mayo Dressing
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise or yogurt with fresh lime juice and a pinch of salt. This tangy lime mayo dressing adds brightness and cooling creaminess, serving as a perfect counterbalance to the smoky chili butter and rich pasta base.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe either warm or chilled. Just before serving, drizzle the lime mayo dressing and chili butter over the top or offer them as condiments so guests can personalize their plates. Allowing the salad to rest briefly enhances the mingling of flavors, making every bite a fiesta of smoky, creamy, spicy, and fresh notes.
How to Serve Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For the finishing touch, sprinkle extra crumbled cotija or feta cheese along with some finely chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or chives. A wedge of lime on the side encourages an extra burst of citrusy brightness if desired. These garnishes add visual appeal and bursts of flavor with each bite.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with simple grilled meats like chicken or steak, or lighter fare like fish tacos. It also complements a summer barbecue spread wonderfully, adding a creamy, spicy vegetable element that guests will love. For vegetarians, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a smoky black bean dish for a hearty combination.
Creative Ways to Present
Make your Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe shine by serving it in a rustic wooden bowl or a bright ceramic dish to highlight the vibrant colors. For a fun twist, spoon it into hollowed bell peppers or serve in individual mason jars for picnics and parties. You can also layer the salad in a trifle bowl for a stunning visual effect that keeps the flavors fresh and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors deepen overnight, but to keep the avocado vibrant, add it just before serving or toss it in fresh to prevent browning.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well because the creamy dressing and fresh vegetables can separate and lose their texture. For the best experience, make only the amount you plan to enjoy within a few days.
Reheating
If you prefer to enjoy the salad warm, gently reheat individual portions in the microwave for short bursts to prevent the avocado and lettuce from wilting too much. Alternatively, serve chilled or at room temperature for maximum freshness and crunch.
FAQs
Can I use canned corn instead of fresh grilled corn?
Yes, you can use canned corn if fresh ears are not available, but grilling or roasting fresh corn provides a smoky sweetness and texture that really elevates the salad’s flavor. If using canned, drain and lightly sauté the corn with some butter and chili powder for a similar effect.
Is this pasta salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! The Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe makes a fantastic make-ahead dish. Just keep the avocado separate until serving and store the dressing separately if possible to maintain freshness and color.
Can I substitute the cream cheese and sour cream with a dairy-free option?
Yes, for a dairy-free version, use vegan cream cheese and sour cream alternatives. The texture and tang will be slightly different, but the salad remains delicious and creamy.
How spicy is this salad?
The spice level is adjustable by varying the amount of cayenne pepper and chili powder. You can keep it mild or kick it up depending on your preference or the appetite of your guests.
What pasta shapes work best for this recipe?
Short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or shells are perfect for this salad. They hold onto the creamy dressing well and mix in the other ingredients nicely without becoming mushy.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe is truly a celebration of textures, colors, and bold flavors that will brighten any meal or gathering. It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and full of personality. I can’t wait for you to experience the combination of smoky, creamy, fresh, and spicy elements that make this dish a personal favorite. Grab those ingredients, have fun in the kitchen, and enjoy a vibrant salad that’s bursting with love and flavor.
Print
Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American Fusion
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad combines the smoky flavors of grilled corn with a rich, cheesy dressing and fresh herbs, tossed with tender pasta and crisp romaine lettuce. Enhanced by a spicy chili butter and zesty lime mayo topping, this vibrant salad is perfect served warm or cold, making it a flavorful and satisfying dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
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
Main 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
Chili Butter
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1/2 to 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper, adjust to preference
- Salt to taste
Lime Mayo Dressing
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise or yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Make the Dressing: In a large salad bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, olive oil, grated garlic, fresh chives, cotija or feta cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly until smooth. This creamy dressing will flavor the entire salad.
- Cook the Pasta and Combine Ingredients: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and immediately toss it with the prepared dressing in the large salad bowl. Add shredded romaine lettuce, grilled or roasted corn, diced spicy cheddar, torn basil, chopped cilantro, and diced avocado. Toss everything gently to combine and coat evenly with the dressing.
- Prepare the Chili Butter: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the salted butter until it turns golden. Stir in the smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper (adjust according to your heat preference), and a pinch of salt. Cook for about one minute to toast the spices, then remove from heat to prevent burning.
- Make the Lime Mayo Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise or yogurt with lime juice and a pinch of salt until smooth. This tangy dressing will add a fresh brightness to the dish.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the pasta salad warm or chilled. Top each serving with a drizzle of the lime mayo dressing and spoon some of the chili butter over the top. Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes before eating to let the flavors meld beautifully.
Notes
- You can use any short pasta such as rotini, penne, or farfalle.
- For a vegetarian version, ensure the cheese is rennet-free.
- If you prefer less spice, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper in the chili butter.
- Grilling the corn adds a nice smoky flavor, but roasted corn works well too.
- This salad can be made ahead and refrigerated; just add avocado fresh before serving to prevent browning.
- May substitute yogurt for a lighter option in the lime mayo dressing.
