Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad

Last summer, my family rediscovered the simple joy of a good pasta salad. It started with a picnic in the park, a basket overflowing with goodies, and my Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad as the star. The creamy dressing, spicy chili butter, and tangy lime mayo were a hit!

This recipe takes all the best parts of street corn – the smoky char, the tangy lime, and the creamy, cheesy goodness – and tosses them with perfectly cooked pasta, crisp romaine, fresh herbs, and a touch of spice. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s satisfying, flavorful, and perfect for a warm-weather gathering or a light weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love It

This Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad isn’t your average pasta salad. It’s bursting with vibrant flavors and textures, offering a delightful mix of creamy, spicy, and tangy notes. The combination of fresh ingredients like corn, herbs, and avocado creates a refreshing and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, making it an ideal weeknight meal or a potluck favorite.

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What You’ll Need

This vibrant pasta salad comes together with a handful of fresh, flavorful ingredients. Here’s the lineup:

For the Creamy 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
• ¾ cup crumbled cotija or feta cheese

For the Salad:

• 1 pound short pasta (I like rotini or penne)
• 1 head romaine lettuce, shredded
• 2 cups grilled or roasted corn from 3-4 ears
• ½ cup fresh basil, torn
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• ½ cup spicy cheddar cheese, diced
• 1 avocado, diced

For the Chili Butter:

• 4 tablespoons salted butter
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• ½ to 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)

For the Lime Mayo Dressing:

• ¼ cup mayonnaise or yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lime juice

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Cheese Dressing

In a large salad bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, olive oil, grated garlic, chopped chives, salt, pepper, and crumbled cotija or feta cheese. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.

Step 2: Cook Pasta & Combine Salad

Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta immediately and add it to the salad bowl with the dressing while it’s still hot. This will help the dressing coat the pasta evenly. Add the shredded romaine lettuce, grilled or roasted corn, torn basil, chopped cilantro, diced spicy cheddar cheese, and diced avocado. Toss everything together gently until well combined.

Step 3: Make the Chili Butter

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until it’s golden brown and fragrant. Add the smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt. Cook for about a minute, stirring constantly, to allow the spices to bloom and release their flavor. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Make the Lime Mayo Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or yogurt) and lime juice until smooth. Add a pinch of salt to taste.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the pasta salad warm or cold, depending on your preference. Drizzle generously with the lime mayo dressing and top with a spoonful of the warm chili butter. For an even richer flavor, allow the salad to sit for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Test Kitchen Tips

• Corn on the Cob: While grilled or roasted corn kernels provide the best flavor, you can use frozen corn in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before adding it to the salad. For some inspiration, try our flavorful side dish recipes to complement your pasta salad. These tips will help you achieve a perfectly balanced dish every time.
• Spice Level: The amount of cayenne pepper in the chili butter can be adjusted to your liking. Start with ½ teaspoon and add more until you reach your desired level of heat.
• Avocado Tip: To prevent the avocado from browning, add it to the salad right before serving.

Make It Your Way

This recipe is a great starting point, but feel free to get creative and make it your own!

• Protein Power-Up: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a protein boost.
• Veggie Variety: Swap the romaine lettuce for spinach, kale, or a mix of greens. You can also add other veggies like bell peppers, red onion, or cherry tomatoes. Check our guide for the best delicious desserts.
• Cheese Please: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or queso fresco.
• Dressing Options: If you prefer a lighter dressing, try using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the lime dressing.

No matter how you choose to customize it, this Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad is sure to be a hit!

How to Serve

This Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it warm, cold, or at room temperature – it’s delicious any way! It’s a great side dish for grilled chicken or fish, or enjoy it as a light and satisfying main course. You could also pair it with other fresh and flavorful dishes, just like our collection of lunchtime favorites. For a complete meal, add a side of crusty bread to soak up all that delicious dressing. Garnish with extra herbs and a sprinkle of cotija cheese for a beautiful presentation.

That’s a Wrap

This Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad is a fiesta in a bowl, a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for any occasion. From the creamy dressing to the spicy chili butter and tangy lime mayo, every bite bursts with flavor. I hope this recipe becomes a new favorite in your home, just like it is in mine. Share your creations with me on social media – I can’t wait to see your colorful pasta salads! Check out our delicious dinner recipes for more inspiration.

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