Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

Introduction

This Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for warm days and gatherings. Combining creamy, tangy, and spicy elements with fresh vegetables, it’s a delightful twist on classic pasta salad that’s sure to please.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces rotini pasta
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool the pasta completely.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, corn kernels, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped cilantro.
3. Step 3: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and well blended.
4. Step 4: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
5. Step 5: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and deepen.
6. Step 6: Before serving, stir the salad again and taste to adjust seasoning if needed.

Tips & Variations

• For extra smoky flavor, grill the corn before adding it to the salad.
• Substitute feta with cotija cheese for a more authentic Mexican street corn taste.
• Add diced avocado for creaminess just before serving to prevent browning.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter dressing.
• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you prefer more heat.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving again. This salad is best eaten chilled and can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Avoid adding avocado too early if included, as it can brown during storage.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?

Yes, frozen corn works well—just thaw and drain it before mixing to prevent extra moisture in the salad.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It keeps well in the fridge and the flavors improve after a few hours, making it a great option for preparing ahead.

Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 55 reviews

This vibrant Street Corn Pasta Salad combines tender rotini pasta with sweet corn, juicy cherry tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese, all dressed in a creamy, zesty dressing featuring lime juice and chili powder. Perfectly chilled and bursting with fresh flavors, this salad is a delightful side dish or light meal for warm-weather gatherings.

• Author: rami
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 to 6 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: Boiling and Mixing
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta and Vegetables

• 8 ounces rotini pasta
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

Cheese and Herbs

• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Dressing

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process.
2. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, corn kernels, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped fresh cilantro. Gently toss to combine these fresh ingredients.
3. Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
4. Mix the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Chill and Serve: Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Before serving, stir the salad well and adjust the seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed.

Notes

• For best results, use fresh corn kernels if in season; otherwise frozen or canned corn works well.
• This salad can be prepared a few hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it convenient for parties or meal prep.
• Adjust the amount of chili powder according to your preferred spice level.
• To make this recipe vegetarian, ensure the mayonnaise and sour cream are vegetarian-friendly.
• Serve chilled for the freshest taste, perfect for summer barbecues or picnic lunches.

Keywords: Street Corn Pasta Salad, rotini pasta salad, summer salad, corn salad, feta cheese salad, creamy pasta salad, easy pasta recipe