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Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

5.2 from 13 reviews

Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the creaminess of the dressing with the smoky, spicy flavors of chili butter and lime mayo. Packed with grilled corn, fresh herbs, and a variety of cheeses, this pasta salad is a perfect blend of textures and tastes.

Ingredients

Scale

For the dressing:

  • 4 ounces room temperature cream cheese
  • 1/3 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 12 grated garlic cloves
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 3/4 cup crumbled cotija or feta cheese

For the salad:

  • 1 pound of short pasta
  • 1 head romaine lettuce, shredded
  • 2 cups grilled or roasted corn (from 34 fresh ears)
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil, torn
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/2 cup spicy cheddar cheese, diced
  • 1 avocado, diced

For the chili butter:

  • 4 tablespoons salted butter
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1/2 to 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper, adjust to preference

For the lime mayo dressing:

  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise or yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Make the Dressing

    In a large salad bowl, combine all the ingredients for the dressing. Season with salt and pepper. This will be the base flavor for the salad.

  2. Step 2: Cook the Pasta and Combine Ingredients

    Cook pasta until al dente. Toss with dressing, then add lettuce, corn, cheddar, basil, cilantro, and avocado. Mix well.

  3. Step 3: Prepare the Chili Butter

    Melt butter in a skillet, add spices, and cook briefly. This spicy butter will enhance the salad’s flavor.

  4. Step 4: Make the Lime Mayo Dressing

    Combine mayonnaise or yogurt with lime juice and salt. This tangy dressing complements the spicy flavors.

  5. Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

    Serve warm or cold, drizzled with lime mayo and a spoonful of chili butter. Let sit for more flavor before enjoying.

Notes

  • You can adjust the spice levels in the chili butter and mayo dressing to suit your taste preferences.
  • Feel free to add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
  • This salad is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for a day.

Nutrition

Keywords: Corn Pasta Salad, Creamy Pasta Salad, Street Corn Salad, Mexican Pasta Salad