Juicy street corn pasta salad: it’s the dish I didn’t know I needed until I tasted it. Think creamy, tangy, slightly spicy, and bursting with the sweet corn flavor that screams summer. It’s like your favorite elote but transformed into a satisfying pasta salad that’s perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or even a simple weeknight meal. I love how the flavors mingle and deepen as it sits, making it even better the next day! I knew I had to share this perfect recipe.
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This juicy street corn pasta salad is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of warm weather and good times. The combination of tender pasta, charred corn, and the creamy, zesty dressing is simply irresistible.
Why You Will Love This juicy street corn pasta salad Recipe
This juicy street corn pasta salad recipe is a guaranteed crowd pleaser. It’s super easy to throw together, packed with flavor, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a side dish to impress at your next cookout or a quick and satisfying lunch, this pasta salad has you covered.
I remember the first time I made this dish. I was hosting a barbecue and wanted something a little different than the usual potato salad. The response was amazing. Everyone raved about the flavor, and it was gone in minutes! It became an instant favorite. This pasta salad is comforting, quick to make, and bursting with summer flavors, and it’s incredibly easy. Sounds perfect, right?
Plus, this recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover grilled corn. The char adds a smoky depth that really elevates the dish. But don’t worry if you don’t have a grill; you can easily pan-fry the corn or even use canned corn in a pinch. I’ve even considered adding this to a Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl for an enhanced and delicious dish! Also, be sure to Follow us on Pinterest for more amazing recipe ideas!
Ingredients Needed for This juicy street corn pasta salad Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious juicy street corn pasta salad:
- Pasta: 1 pound of your favorite short pasta shape. Penne, rotini, or farfalle work great.
- Corn: 4 ears of fresh corn, grilled or pan-fried (about 3 cups of kernels). Or 2 (15-ounce) cans of corn, drained.
- Mayonnaise: 1 cup. Adds creamy richness.
- Sour Cream: 1/2 cup. Adds tang and balances the richness of the mayo.
- Lime Juice: 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed. For that essential zesty kick.
- Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon. Adds a touch of warmth and spice.
- Cumin: 1/2 teaspoon. Adds earthy depth.
- Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon. For savory flavor.
- Cotija Cheese: 1/2 cup, crumbled. Adds salty, crumbly goodness.
- Cilantro: 1/4 cup, chopped. For fresh, herbaceous flavor.
- Red Onion: 1/4 cup, finely diced. Adds a bit of bite.
- Jalapeño: 1, seeded and minced (optional). For added heat.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
How to Make This juicy street corn pasta salad Recipe
Follow these simple steps to create your own bowl of sunshine:
- 1. Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water. This stops the cooking process and helps prevent the pasta from sticking together.
- 2. Prepare the Corn: If using fresh corn, grill or pan-fry until slightly charred. Let cool slightly, then cut the kernels off the cob. If using canned corn, drain well. A tasty alternative to grilled or pan-fried corn is this Fried Corn Recipe.
- 3. Make the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- 4. Combine: Add the cooked pasta, corn kernels, cotija cheese, cilantro, red onion, and jalapeño (if using) to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently to combine, making sure everything is nicely coated.
- 5. Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This will also help the pasta salad stay fresh, just like this Dense Bean Salad Recipe.
- 6. Serve: Before serving, give the pasta salad another toss. Garnish with extra cotija cheese and cilantro, if desired.
How to Serve This juicy street corn pasta salad Recipe
This versatile pasta salad can be served in so many ways:
- As a side dish: Perfect alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
- As a light lunch: Enjoy it on its own for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
- As a potluck superstar: Bring it to your next gathering and watch it disappear.
How to Store This juicy street corn pasta salad Recipe
Proper storage will keep your pasta salad fresh and flavorful.
- Refrigeration: Store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the mayonnaise and sour cream can separate and become watery upon thawing.
- Reheating: No need to reheat! This pasta salad is best served cold. If anything, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to thaw out if it became too chilled in the refrigerator.
Tips to Make This juicy street corn pasta salad Recipe
Here are some tips to ensure your pasta salad is a success:
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta holds its shape better and won’t become mushy in the salad.
- Char the corn: Grilling or pan-frying the corn adds a smoky flavor that really elevates the dish.
- Don’t skip the lime juice: The lime juice is essential for that authentic street corn flavor.
- Adjust the spice level: If you’re sensitive to heat, use less jalapeño or omit it altogether.
- Make it ahead of time: The flavors meld and deepen as the salad sits, so it’s even better the next day.
Helpful Notes for This juicy street corn pasta salad Recipe
- Type of pasta: Feel free to use any short pasta shape you like. Gluten-free pasta works well too.
- Cojita cheese substitute: If you can’t find cotija cheese, feta or queso fresco can be used as a substitute.
- Canned corn alternative: In a pinch, frozen corn, thawed and drained well, is a suitable substitute.
- Spice Alternatives: You can substitute cayenne pepper for jalapeño to add heat. Another alternative is a dash of hot sauce of your choice.
Variation of This juicy street corn pasta salad Recipe
Get creative and customize this recipe to your liking with these additions:
- Add protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans would all be delicious additions.
- Add Vegetables: Diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or cucumber.
- Spice it up: Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing.
- Make it creamy: Add an extra dollop of sour cream or a splash of heavy cream to the dressing.
What makes this street corn pasta salad so juicy?
The key to a juicy street corn pasta salad is using fresh corn cut straight from the cob and a creamy, tangy dressing. Allowing the salad to sit for a while before serving also helps the flavors meld and makes it extra juicy.
How long does street corn pasta salad last?
Street corn pasta salad generally lasts for 3-5 days in the refrigerator. Be sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out.
Can I make street corn pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, street corn pasta salad is a great make-ahead dish! In fact, the flavors often improve as it sits. I recommend making it at least a few hours before serving, or even the day before.
What kind of pasta is best for street corn pasta salad?
Smaller pasta shapes like rotini, shells, or elbow macaroni work best for street corn pasta salad. They hold the dressing and corn well, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
