If you’re searching for the ultimate summer side, look no further than this Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe. It’s a glorious jumble of charred sweet corn, tender pasta, tangy lime, creamy dressing, and zippy spices—each forkful a vibrant explosion of flavor with serious backyard barbecue energy. This dish takes everything you love about classic Mexican street corn (elote) and transforms it into a crowd-pleasing salad that’s perfect for potlucks, cookouts, or a fun family dinner at home. Trust me, one bite and you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this recipe is how each ingredient lends its own character to the finished salad. The lineup is simple yet packed with color, flavor, and texture, ensuring your Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe turns out unforgettable every single time.
- Elbow macaroni or rotini pasta (8 ounces): These pasta shapes soak up all that luscious dressing and offer the perfect bite-sized base.
- Corn kernels (2 cups): Fresh, canned, or frozen and thawed corn all work—but charring or grilling really intensifies the sweetness and adds irresistible smokiness.
- Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): The classic creamy backbone that gives every bite its richness.
- Sour cream (1/4 cup): Adds tangy depth; Greek yogurt works too if you want a lighter touch.
- Lime juice (1 tablespoon): For that zingy brightness which lifts the whole salad.
- Chili powder (1 teaspoon): Kicks up the flavor and echoes the street corn vibes.
- Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Offers subtle smokiness and gorgeous color.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): For a mellow hit of savory, garlicky goodness.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances out the sweetness and bright flavors.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Brings a gentle heat and rounds out the spices.
- Cotija or feta cheese (1/2 cup, crumbled): Salty, creamy, and ever-so-slightly funky—just what you need for that elote essence.
- Cilantro (1/4 cup, chopped): For a burst of freshness and color; skip if you’re not a fan.
- Red onion (1/4 cup, diced): Sharply sweet and perfectly crisp for a lively crunch.
- Optional garnishes: Extra lime wedges and chili powder make each serving feel festive and custom to taste!
How to Make Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add your pasta of choice. Cook according to the package instructions until just al dente—you want the noodles tender but with a little bite. Once done, drain and give the pasta a quick rinse under cold water. This cools it down and stops the cooking, ensuring your salad stays crisp, not soggy. Set the pasta aside so it’s ready for the creamy magic ahead.
Step 2: Char the Corn
While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your corn kernels—no oil needed, just a dry pan. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn picks up beautiful golden spots and a little smokiness. This quick char adds layers of flavor that really make the Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe pop. If you’re using pre-grilled or fire-roasted corn, feel free to skip this part!
Step 3: Whisk the Dressing
In a big salad bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until the mixture looks smooth and inviting. This ultra-creamy dressing is the key to transforming humble ingredients into something craveable, just like the famous street corn you love—but in easy salad form.
Step 4: Mix Everything Together
Add the cooled pasta, charred corn, diced red onion, chopped cilantro, and crumbled cotija (or feta) cheese straight to the bowl with your dressing. Gently toss until everything is wonderfully coated and every ingredient shimmers with tangy, creamy goodness. It’s okay if you taste-test a spoonful or two right now—this is the reward for being the cook!
Step 5: Chill for Flavor
Cover the bowl and give your Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe at least 30 minutes in the fridge. This lets all the flavors meld and deepen, so you get that addictive, can’t-stop-eating-it magic at serving time. When ready, give it one last quick toss; you can always add a splash more lime juice or a pinch of salt if needed.
How to Serve Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe
Garnishes
The finishing touches make this dish shine! Sprinkle extra crumbled cheese over the top, dust with a pinch of chili powder, and add fresh lime wedges on the side. A final flourish of chopped cilantro is always appreciated for its color and freshness. Not only do these garnishes make your Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe look irresistible, they also let everyone customize their bowl just how they like it.
Side Dishes
This salad plays well with almost anything. Serve alongside grilled meats, tacos, burgers, or even as part of a colorful potluck spread. The bold, creamy flavors balance out spicy barbecue, smoky ribs, or simple roasted veggies. It’s also hearty enough to enjoy as a stand-alone lunch or light dinner—especially when you’re craving something both easy and full of personality!
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, try layering the salad in small mason jars or clear cups for a fun, portable side. Alternatively, serve in crisp lettuce cups for a hand-held bite, or scoop onto tostadas and drizzle with extra lime and hot sauce. The Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe is endlessly riffable, making every meal a little more festive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors continue to deepen, making day-two even better! Just stir before serving to refresh the creamy texture. Your Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe will stay fresh and delicious for up to three days.
Freezing
Because this salad relies on a creamy mayonnaise-based dressing, it’s best to enjoy it fresh from the fridge. Freezing isn’t recommended, as the texture of both pasta and dressing can become separated and watery. If you do need to make it ahead, just prep the components and mix together on serving day.
Reheating
This dish is meant to be served cold or at room temperature, so there’s no reheating required. If you’d like to enjoy it warm, allow the salad to sit at room temp for a bit, or briefly microwave individual portions in short bursts—but be careful not to overheat, or the dressing might separate. It’s at its best when cool and creamy!
FAQs
Can I use a different type Salad
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni and rotini work beautifully, any short, sturdy pasta such as penne, fusilli, or shells will hold the dressing well and create a satisfying bite.
Is there a dairy-free way to make this Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe?
You can substitute vegan mayonnaise and a plant-based yogurt or sour cream for the dressing, and use your favorite dairy-free cheese to keep all the creamy goodness without the dairy.
What if I don’t like cilantro?
No worries—just leave it out, or swap in fresh parsley or thinly sliced green onions for a different kind of freshness in your salad.
How can I add more protein?
To make the Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe a full meal, add grilled chicken, cooked shrimp, black beans, or even crumbled bacon for a heartier twist.
Can I prepare this salad the night before?
Yes! In fact, making the salad ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just give it a good stir before serving, and add garnishes right before you dig in for the freshest presentation.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe is everything you want in a summer side: creamy, zesty, and bursting with vibrant flavor. It’s the kind of dish that disappears in a flash and keeps friends and family asking for the recipe. Don’t miss your chance to bring this modern classic to your next gathering—give it a try and get ready for rave reviews!
Print
Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes (plus chilling)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the flavors of summer with this Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad recipe. A delightful fusion of Mexican street corn and pasta salad, this dish is creamy, zesty, and perfect for picnics and barbecues.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni or rotini pasta
Corn Mixture:
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen and thawed)
Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Additional Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija or feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- Optional: extra lime wedges and chili powder for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta until al dente, then rinse and set aside to cool.
- Char the Corn: In a skillet, cook the corn until lightly charred.
- Prepare the Dressing: Whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, spices, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients: Mix pasta, corn, red onion, cilantro, and cheese in a bowl.
- Toss and Chill: Coat everything with the dressing and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Add extra cheese, chili powder, and lime wedges before serving.
Notes
- Grilled corn adds extra flavor.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- This salad can be made a day ahead.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
