Street Corn Pasta Salad is like a fiesta in a bowl. Imagine the sweet crunch of fresh corn mingling with al dente pasta, all drizzled with a zesty lime dressing that dances on your taste buds. The smokiness of the charred corn adds an unexpected depth, while creamy cheese and vibrant cilantro bring it all together. cozy soup options Mexican Macaroni Salad recipe Perfect for summer barbecues or a cozy night in, this dish promises to brighten any occasion. Buffalo Chicken Bombs for gatherings Cajun Potato Soup. For more inspiration, check out this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl recipe.
The first time I made Street Corn Pasta Salad, I was hosting friends for a potluck. As soon as they took their first bites, I knew I’d struck culinary gold. Their delighted faces and compliments made my heart swell with pride. Now, we make it every summer, filling our plates and hearts with joy and laughter. For more inspiration, check out this Brisket Mac and Cheese recipe.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This Street Corn Pasta Salad is quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings. With its bold flavors and colorful ingredients, it’s sure to impress anyone at your table. You can easily customize it by adding proteins or veggies to suit your taste. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prepping and tastes even better the next day! [/info_box]
I remember serving this salad at a family barbecue where everyone went back for seconds. It became an instant favorite!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Pasta: I recommend using rotini or penne because they hold the dressing beautifully.
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Fresh Corn: Sweet corn is best! If you’re short on time, canned corn will do.
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Red Bell Pepper: Adds a crunchy sweetness and vibrant color that makes the salad pop.
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Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives an herbaceous kick that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
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Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creaminess and tang; feel free to substitute with goat cheese if preferred.
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Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens up the dish; bottled just won’t cut it!
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Olive Oil: Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for the dressing to enhance flavor.
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Chili Powder: A sprinkle gives the salad a mild heat—adjust according to your spice tolerance!
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Salt & Pepper: Essential for bringing out all those fantastic flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt generously before tossing in your pasta. Cook until al dente according to package instructions.
Prepare the Corn: While the pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add fresh corn kernels (or canned corn) and sauté until they get slightly charred—about 5 minutes.
Chop Veggies: Dice the red bell pepper and chop cilantro while your corn cools down. Be sure not to skimp on these—they add great texture!
Create the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. Taste test—this is key!
Toss Everything Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, charred corn, chopped veggies, and dressing. Gently fold everything until evenly coated.
Add Feta & Serve**: Finally, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over your salad before giving one last gentle toss. Serve chilled or at room temperature for maximum flavor enjoyment!
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delightful fusion, combining the creaminess of pasta with the smoky charm of street corn. This dish is perfect for summer barbecues or a cozy dinner at home, making it an instant crowd-pleaser. The vibrant colors and flavors will brighten any meal! [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling your pasta until al dente. Meanwhile, grill or char the corn while mixing the dressing. This sequence ensures everything is fresh and warm when you combine them.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences. Try adding diced bell peppers, jalapeños for spice, or even black beans for extra protein.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best results, enjoy cold without reheating to maintain texture and flavor.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] To achieve the best flavor, use fresh corn and grill it for that authentic taste. Adjust the lime juice according to your preference – more for tanginess! Always taste before serving; sometimes a little extra seasoning transforms everything. [/info_box]
Creating this dish always brings back memories of summer parties with friends where laughter echoed around me as I served this pasta salad, and everyone kept coming back for seconds!
FAQ
What can I substitute for pasta in Street Corn Pasta Salad?
Zucchini noodles or quinoa are excellent gluten-free alternatives to traditional pasta.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance; just keep it refrigerated until serving.
How do I store leftover Street Corn Pasta Salad?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Street Corn Pasta Salad
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Experience a burst of summer flavors with this vibrant Street Corn Pasta Salad. Featuring sweet charred corn, al dente pasta, and a zesty lime dressing, this dish is perfect for barbecues or cozy nights in. With the creaminess of feta cheese and the freshness of cilantro, it’s not just a side dish; it’s an instant crowd-pleaser that brings joy to any occasion.
Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels (or canned)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, sauté corn kernels until charred (about 5 minutes).
- While the corn cools, chop the red bell pepper and cilantro.
- Whisk together lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, charred corn, diced bell pepper, cilantro, and dressing; toss gently.
- Add crumbled feta on top and give it one last gentle mix. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (210g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
