Get ready to enjoy a delightful dish with this Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad! This vibrant salad is perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or even just a fun family dinner. The creamy cheese dressing pairs perfectly with the fresh herbs, sweet corn, and creamy avocado. Topped with a warm chili butter and tangy lime dressing, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy cheese, fresh herbs, and spices creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for barbecues, picnics, or as a light main course.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is quick to whip up on busy days.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice levels or add your favorite veggies to make it your own!
• Make Ahead Friendly: This pasta salad tastes even better after sitting for a while, making it great for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large salad bowl
• Skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large salad bowl: Provides enough space to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Skillet: Ideal for making the delicious chili butter that adds depth to the dish.

this recipe

Ingredients

Get ready for a super tasty pasta salad! It has soft pasta with a creamy cheese sauce. We add fresh stuff like herbs, corn, and avocado. The best part? You top it with a warm, spicy butter and a fresh, tangy lime sauce. It’s a fun and yummy meal!

Ingredients:
– 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
– 3/4 cup crumbled cotija or feta cheese
– 1 pound of short pasta
– 1 head romaine lettuce (shredded)
– 2 cups grilled or roasted corn (from 3-4 fresh ears)
– 1/2 cup fresh basil (torn)
– 1/2 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
– 1/2 cup spicy cheddar cheese (diced)
– 1 avocado (diced)
– 4 tablespoons salted butter
– 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1/2 to 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper (adjust to preference)
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise or yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lime juice

How to Make Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Cheese Dressing

In a large salad bowl, combine room temperature cream cheese, sour cream, extra virgin olive oil, grated garlic cloves, chopped fresh chives, salt, pepper, and crumbled cotija or feta cheese. Mix well until smooth.

Step 2: Cook Pasta & Combine Salad

Cook short pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain immediately and toss the hot pasta with the prepared dressing in the salad bowl. Add shredded romaine lettuce, grilled or roasted corn, torn fresh basil, chopped fresh cilantro, diced spicy cheddar cheese, and diced avocado. Toss everything thoroughly to combine.

Step 3: Make the Chili Butter

In a skillet over medium heat, melt salted butter until golden. Stir in smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper (adjusting based on your spice preference), and a pinch of salt. Cook for one minute to allow spices to bloom before removing from heat.

Step 4: Make the Lime Mayo Dressing

In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise (or yogurt) with fresh lime juice and a pinch of salt until well combined.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the pasta salad warm or cold based on your preference. Drizzle with the Lime Mayo Dressing and top with a generous spoonful of the Chili Butter. For deeper flavors, let the salad sit for about ten minutes before serving.

This Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad is sure to become one of your go-to recipes! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad

Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this pasta salad can complement many meals.

As a Main Dish

• Perfect for summer dinners, serve this pasta salad as a light main course paired with grilled chicken or turkey.

As a Side Dish

• This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables or any meat dishes, adding a refreshing element to your plate.

For Picnics and Potlucks

• Pack it in a container for easy transport. It holds up well and tastes great chilled, making it ideal for outdoor gatherings.

With Toppings

• Enhance the flavor by adding extra toppings such as sliced jalapeños for spice or nuts for crunch, catering to your guests’ preferences.

How to Perfect Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad

To elevate your Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad, consider these simple tips that ensure maximum flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and herbs significantly enhance the overall taste of the salad.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by varying the amount of cayenne pepper according to your preference.

• Mix Well: Ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined for even distribution of flavors throughout the salad.

• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the flavors to meld in the refrigerator for an hour enhances the taste.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad

Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with other dishes. Here are some great side options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Perfectly seasoned and cooked on the grill; they add protein without overpowering the flavors of the pasta salad.

2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus drizzled with olive oil brings color and nutrition to your meal.

3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil make a refreshing companion that complements the creamy pasta salad well.

4. Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: A spicy dip that’s perfect for scooping; it adds a crunchy texture contrast with rich flavors.

5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Filled with quinoa or rice and veggies; they provide heartiness while being visually appealing on your table.

6. Corn on the Cob: Simple yet classic; grill or boil corn on the cob brushed with lime butter for an extra zing alongside your pasta salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad, it’s easy to overlook a few key elements that can make or break your dish. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to add enough salt and pepper can leave your pasta salad bland. Always season your dressing and taste as you go.
• Using overcooked pasta: Overcooked pasta can become mushy in the salad. Make sure to cook it al dente for the best texture.
• Not letting flavors meld: Serving immediately may not allow the flavors to develop fully. Letting the salad sit for a bit enhances the taste.
• Ignoring freshness: Using wilted herbs or old ingredients can affect the quality of your dish. Always use fresh ingredients for the best results.
• Overloading on toppings: While toppings enhance flavor, too many can overwhelm the dish. Keep it balanced with just enough to complement without overpowering.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the salad is completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Freezing is not recommended, as it may change the texture of the ingredients.
• If necessary, freeze only the dressing separately and mix when ready to serve.

Reheating Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil; warm for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Microwave in short bursts (30 seconds), stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad that might help you out!

Can I make Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

What variations can I try with Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Feel free to customize by adding grilled chicken, swapping cheeses, or using different herbs based on your taste preferences.

How do I store leftover Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days for optimal freshness.

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen corn works well; just ensure it’s thawed and drained before adding it to your salad.

What can I substitute if I don’t have cotija cheese?

Feta cheese makes a great substitute if cotija is unavailable; its tangy flavor complements the dish well.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will please everyone at your table. Its versatility allows for easy customization according to personal preferences, making it perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a refreshing twist on pasta salads!

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Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad

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• Author: Madison
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Get ready to savor a burst of flavors with this Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad! This vibrant dish combines tender pasta with a luscious cheese dressing, fresh herbs, and the sweetness of grilled corn. Topped with a zesty lime mayo and warm chili butter, it’s perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or a delightful family meal. Easy to prepare and customize, this salad is sure to impress everyone at your table. Whether served warm or cold, it’s a refreshing addition to any meal that you’ll want to make again and again!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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
• 3/4 cup crumbled cotija or feta cheese
• 1 pound of short pasta
• 1 head romaine lettuce (shredded)
• 2 cups grilled or roasted corn (from 3–4 fresh ears)
• 1/2 cup fresh basil (torn)
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
• 1/2 cup spicy cheddar cheese (diced)
• 1 avocado (diced)
• 4 tablespoons salted butter
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1/2 to 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper (adjust to preference)
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise or yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lime juice

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, olive oil, garlic, chives, salt, pepper, and cotija until smooth.
2. Cook short pasta until al dente; drain and combine with the dressing in the bowl. Add shredded romaine lettuce, corn, basil, cilantro, spicy cheddar cheese, and avocado. Toss well.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and stir in smoked paprika and chili powder for one minute.
4. For the lime mayo dressing: Mix mayonnaise (or yogurt) with lime juice in another bowl.
5. Serve the pasta salad warm or cold with drizzled lime mayo and top with chili butter.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 630mg
• Fat: 29g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: For added spice, adjust cayenne pepper levels to taste. Customize by adding your favorite veggies or proteins like grilled chicken or turkey.