There is something utterly delightful about the combination of smoky, charred corn mingling with cool, creamy pasta and a zesty lime kick. This Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe takes all those fantastic flavors from traditional street corn and turns them into a vibrant, satisfying pasta salad that’s perfect for summer cookouts, weekend lunches, or whenever you want a fresh twist on a crowd-pleasing dish. With bright cilantro, tangy feta, and just the right amount of spice, every bite bursts with texture and flavor that will make this your new favorite go-to salad.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but packed with flavor—each one plays a vital role in balancing creaminess, brightness, and a hint of spice. From the tender rotini to the crunchy charred corn, every element contributes to making this salad irresistibly tasty.
- Rotini pasta: 8 oz of this corkscrew-shaped pasta is perfect for holding onto the creamy dressing and chunky ingredients.
- Fresh corn kernels: 2 cups, about 2 ears, grilled to get that beautiful smoky char that adds incredible depth.
- Mayonnaise: 1 cup of creamy richness that forms the base of the dressing.
- Sour cream: 1/2 cup to bring a tangy, smooth texture complimentary to the mayo.
- Lime juice: Freshly squeezed from 2 limes, this adds a bright, citrusy zing that wakes up the salad.
- Red onion: 1/2 cup diced, offering a light crunch and sharpness that balances the creaminess.
- Cilantro: 1/4 cup chopped, for a fresh herbal note that brings everything together.
- Feta cheese: 3/4 cup crumbled, lending a salty, creamy punch that contrasts wonderfully with the corn.
- Cayenne pepper: Just 1/4 teaspoon to add a subtle, warming heat.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, those essential seasonings that tie all the flavors into harmony.
How to Make Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the pasta
Start by boiling your rotini pasta in salted water until it’s al dente—meaning it should still have a little bite and not be mushy. Once cooked, drain it well and immediately rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and keep it cool for the salad. This step ensures the pasta holds its shape and texture perfectly against the creamy dressing.
Step 2: Grill the corn
Next, it’s time to get that signature smoky flavor. Grill the fresh corn ears on a hot surface until they develop a lovely char, turning often to avoid burning. Once charred, let them cool before slicing off the kernels. This smoky, slightly sweet corn will be the star flavor in your salad.
Step 3: Make the dressing
In a medium bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, sour cream, freshly squeezed lime juice, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper. This luscious, creamy dressing is bursting with tang and just a hint of spice that perfectly complements the sweet corn and savory feta.
Step 4: Combine ingredients
In your largest bowl, mix the cooled pasta, grilled corn kernels, diced red onion, chopped cilantro, and crumbled feta cheese. Make sure everything is evenly distributed before moving on to the next step.
Step 5: Toss and chill
Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat every piece of pasta and kernel of corn. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors marry and the salad chill to refreshing perfection.
How to Serve Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe
Garnishes
When you’re ready to serve, sprinkle a little extra crumbled feta and some fresh cilantro leaves on top. A light dusting of paprika or an additional squeeze of lime can also add that perfect finishing touch.
Side Dishes
This salad shines brilliantly alongside grilled chicken, fish tacos, or even spicy sausages. It also pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or some warm, crusty bread to round out your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun, casual presentation, serve the Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe in mini mason jars for easy grab-and-go portions. Alternatively, spoon it into hollowed-out bell pepper halves or stack it as a colorful layered salad in a clear trifle bowl to wow your guests visually.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen as it rests, though the pasta will soak up some of the dressing over time, so give it a gentle stir before serving again.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh or chilled rather than frozen; freezing can alter the texture of the pasta and creamy dressing, making it less appetizing once thawed.
Reheating
Since it’s a cold pasta salad, reheating isn’t recommended. If you prefer it slightly warmer, allow it to sit out at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving, but always avoid microwaving as the dressing may separate.
FAQs
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
Absolutely! If fresh corn isn’t available, frozen corn works well too. Just thaw and drain it, then you can sauté it lightly in a pan to add some charred flavor before mixing it in.
Is there a dairy-free option for the dressing?
You can swap out the mayonnaise and sour cream for dairy-free versions or use a creamy avocado base to keep it rich but suitable for dairy-free diets.
How spicy is this salad?
The cayenne pepper adds only a subtle warmth, not overwhelming heat. You can adjust the amount to your preference or omit it altogether if you want no spice.
Can this salad be made vegan?
Yes! Use vegan mayo and sour cream substitutes, and swap the feta for a plant-based cheese or omit it for a simpler, vegan-friendly version.
What’s the best pasta to use for this recipe?
Rotini is ideal because its twists hold onto the dressing and bits of corn perfectly, but you can also use fusilli, penne, or shells depending on what you have on hand.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe is an absolute winner that brings together the best of fresh, smoky, tangy, and creamy flavors. It’s incredibly versatile, easy to whip up, and will elevate any meal with its vibrant taste and texture. Trust me, once you try this, it’s going to become a staple in your recipe rotation for good!
