Street Corn Pasta Salad – A Flavor-Packed Summer Favorite

Street Corn Pasta Salad is the ultimate combination of creamy pasta, sweet charred corn, tangy cheese, and zesty seasonings. Each bite bursts with vibrant flavors reminiscent of classic Mexican street corn, but in a refreshing pasta salad form that’s perfect for warm weather. It’s more than just a side dish—this salad can steal the show at picnics, potlucks, or casual weeknight dinners.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can grill or roast the corn to bring out natural sweetness, toss it with tender pasta, and dress it with a creamy, slightly spicy sauce for a crowd-pleasing dish. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch, a hearty side, or a meal prep option, Street Corn Pasta Salad delivers bold flavor without complicated steps. With fresh ingredients, a little lime juice, and a sprinkle of cheese, this salad embodies the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet.

Ingredients Needed

Ingredient	Amount	Approx. Calories
Pasta (rotini, penne, or fusilli)	8 oz (about 2 cups dry)	840
Fresh or frozen corn	2 cups	150
Mayonnaise	¼ cup	360
Sour cream	¼ cup	120
Lime juice	2 tbsp	8
Cotija cheese (crumbled)	½ cup	200
Red bell pepper (diced)	1 medium	25
Green onions (chopped)	2–3 stalks	10
Cilantro (chopped)	2 tbsp	negligible
Chili powder	1 tsp	6
Garlic powder	½ tsp	4
Salt & pepper	to taste	negligible

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

2. Prepare the Corn

If using fresh corn, grill or roast until slightly charred for smoky flavor. If using frozen, sauté briefly in a skillet until lightly golden. Allow to cool slightly.

3. Make the Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

4. Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, corn, diced red bell pepper, chopped green onions, and cilantro.

5. Add the Dressing

Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.

6. Add Cheese and Chill

Sprinkle crumbled Cotija cheese over the salad. Chill for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

7. Serve

Give the salad a final toss before serving and garnish with extra chili powder or lime wedges if desired.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or cayenne to the dressing.
• Swap the cheese: Feta or shredded Parmesan works if Cotija isn’t available.
• Add protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans make it a complete meal.
• Use different pasta shapes: Shells, rotini, or bowtie pasta hold the dressing well.
• Make it lighter: Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise and sour cream.
• Add more veggies: Cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or roasted peppers add extra color and nutrition.

Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	430
Protein	10–12 g
Carbohydrates	55–60 g
Fat	18–20 g
Fiber	4–5 g
Sodium	400–500 mg

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a side for grilled meats or fish.
• Add extra lime wedges and chili powder for a fresh kick.
• Perfect for potlucks, picnics, and BBQs.
• Can be served chilled or at room temperature.
• Pair with a crisp green salad or avocado slices for a fuller meal.

FAQs

1. Can I make Street Corn Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the pasta and corn in advance, mix with the dressing, and refrigerate. For best texture, add cheese and cilantro right before serving.

2. Can I use frozen corn?

Absolutely! Thaw and lightly sauté or roast frozen corn for added flavor. Fresh corn gives the best smoky, sweet taste but frozen works well in a pinch.

3. What type of pasta works best?

Short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, shells, or bowtie hold the dressing and mix-ins perfectly.

4. How spicy is the salad?

The basic recipe is mildly spicy from chili powder. Adjust spiciness with jalapeños, cayenne, or hot sauce to your preference.

5. Can I make it lighter or healthier?

Yes! Swap Greek yogurt for mayonnaise and sour cream for a lighter, tangier dressing without sacrificing flavor.

6. Can I add protein to make it a meal?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans are excellent additions that turn the salad into a satisfying main dish.

Conclusion

Street Corn Pasta Salad combines bold Mexican street corn flavors with creamy pasta for a dish that’s both satisfying and versatile. With a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can create a colorful, flavorful salad that works as a main or side dish. Its freshness, creaminess, and vibrant color make it perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to summer gatherings. Easy to customize and endlessly delicious, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves bold, fresh, and comforting flavors in a bowl.