If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with vibrant flavors, textures, and a hint of spice, this Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine the smoky sweetness of corn mingling effortlessly with al dente pasta, crisp bell peppers, and a creamy, tangy dressing that’s been kissed by lime and chili powder. It’s a perfect celebration of summer in a bowl, easy to prepare, and guaranteed to impress whether you’re sharing at a picnic, potluck, or a casual dinner with friends. Trust me, once you try this Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe, it’ll have a permanent spot in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on a handful of simple, fresh ingredients that each play an important role. From the sweetness of corn to the creamy tanginess of the dressing, every component works in harmony to create a colorful and flavorful pasta salad you’ll want to make again and again.
- 1 pound pasta (any shape): The pasta provides a hearty base, soaking up flavors while adding chewiness to each bite.
- 2 cups cooked corn kernels: Sweet and juicy, corn offers a burst of freshness and texture that’s essential to the dish.
- 1 red bell pepper, diced: Adds a crunchy, sweet pop of color and flavor that brightens the salad.
- ½ red onion, finely chopped: Brings a mild sharpness that balances the creaminess.
- 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced: Provides just the right kick of heat without overpowering the other flavors.
- ½ cup mayonnaise: The creamy base of the dressing, binding ingredients together.
- ¼ cup sour cream: Adds tangy richness, mellowing the spice and enhancing flavor depth.
- ¼ cup freshly chopped cilantro: Infuses fresh herbal notes for that authentic street corn vibe.
- Juice of 1 lime: Offers zesty brightness, elevating all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Gives a smoky warmth that ties the salad to classic Mexican street food.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To balance and enhance all the ingredients harmoniously.
How to Make Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your pasta in generously salted water according to package instructions until it’s al dente. This ensures it holds up perfectly when tossed with the rest of the salad ingredients. Once cooked, drain it well and spread it out to cool slightly while you prepare the dressing and veggies.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper until silky smooth. This dressing is like the magic glue that brings the salad together—creamy yet bright, with a hint of spice that complements every bite.
Step 3: Combine the Veggies and Pasta
In a large bowl, gently fold together the cooled pasta, cooked corn kernels, diced red bell pepper, chopped red onion, and minced jalapeno. This colorful mix is already looking like a party in a bowl, packed with wonderful textures and fresh flavors.
Step 4: Toss with the Dressing
Pour your creamy dressing over the pasta and veggie mixture, then toss gently but thoroughly to make sure every bit gets a delicious coating. This step really melds everything into a cohesive, flavorful salad that’s impossible to resist.
Step 5: Fold in Fresh Cilantro
Just before serving, fold in the fresh cilantro. Its bright, herbal flavor adds an authentic street-corn freshness and a burst of color that finishes the dish beautifully.
Step 6: Chill and Marinate
Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time lets the flavors meld and intensify, ensuring every forkful delivers that perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and fresh notes that make this Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe so special.
How to Serve Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch, sprinkle some crumbled cotija cheese or crumbled feta on top just before serving. A little more fresh cilantro or a wedge of lime on the side also adds brightness and flair that guests will appreciate.
Side Dishes
This pasta salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken or steak, making it an ideal side for weekend barbecues. It also complements fish tacos or can be served alongside some crunchy tortilla chips for a vibrant shared meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe in mini mason jars or hollowed-out bell peppers for individual portions. Impress your guests by layering the salad with additional grilled corn or avocado for an elevated look and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for easy meals or lunches throughout the week.
Freezing
This pasta salad is best enjoyed fresh or chilled, as freezing can negatively affect the texture, especially the creamy dressing and fresh veggies. So, I recommend skipping freezing for this one.
Reheating
Since this is a cold pasta salad, reheating isn’t necessary. If you prefer it at room temperature, simply take it out of the fridge 20 minutes before serving and give it a gentle stir for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen corn works just fine once it’s thawed and drained well. It’s a convenient alternative that still delivers that sweet, smoky flavor essential to the salad.
How spicy is this Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe?
The heat level is moderate thanks to the jalapeno and chili powder, but you can easily adjust the spice by reducing or increasing these ingredients to suit your taste.
Can I substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt?
Yes, Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you want a lighter or tangier dressing. It will still maintain the creamy texture and add a nice brightness.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This salad holds up well for a couple of days in the fridge, making it a perfect make-ahead dish for lunches or gatherings.
What other herbs can I use if I don’t like cilantro?
If cilantro isn’t your thing, fresh parsley or basil can be lovely alternatives, though they will change the flavor profile slightly. Feel free to experiment based on your preferences.
Final Thoughts
This Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat. Its fresh ingredients, creamy texture, and vibrant flavors come together in perfect harmony. Next time you’re looking for something easy, impressive, and absolutely delicious, give this recipe a try—you’ll wonder why you didn’t discover it sooner!
Print
Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes plus 30 minutes chilling
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant and flavorful Street Corn Pasta Salad combining al dente pasta with sweet corn, crunchy bell peppers, and a zesty, creamy dressing infused with lime and chili powder. This dish is perfect as a refreshing side or a light main course, boasting a fusion of smoky, spicy, and tangy flavors inspired by classic street corn.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 1 pound pasta (any shape)
- 2 cups cooked corn kernels
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- ½ red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced
Dressing
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup freshly chopped cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
- Make Dressing: In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta with corn kernels, diced red bell pepper, chopped red onion, and minced jalapeno.
- Toss Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Add Cilantro: Fold in freshly chopped cilantro for added flavor. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
Notes
- Use any pasta shape you prefer, though short pasta like rotini or penne works best to hold the dressing.
- For a smoky flavor, grill the corn kernels before adding to the salad.
- Adjust the amount of jalapeno for desired spice level.
- This salad stores well in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and use light mayonnaise.
