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Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad

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A creamy, zesty, and smoky pasta salad featuring grilled corn, fresh veggies, and a tangy homemade dressing. Perfect for potlucks and quick weeknight sides.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces rotini or fusilli pasta
  • 3 cups fresh corn kernels (about 4 ears), grilled or pan-seared
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely diced (optional)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for lighter option)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional toppings: 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese or feta, extra chopped cilantro, lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and rinse briefly under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside to drain completely.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Toss fresh corn kernels with a little olive oil and salt. Spread in a single layer and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly charred, about 5–7 minutes. Set aside to cool.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, charred corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño if using. Pour dressing over and toss gently to coat evenly.
  5. Sprinkle with crumbled cotija cheese if desired. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Do not overcook pasta to avoid mushiness. Char corn well for smoky flavor. Rinsing pasta after cooking prevents salad from becoming soggy. For dairy-free, use vegan mayo and coconut yogurt, omit cheese. Salad can be served immediately but tastes best after chilling at least 30 minutes. Store leftovers in airtight container up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy street corn pasta salad, potluck side dish, grilled corn pasta salad, easy pasta salad, summer salad, creamy dressing pasta

Find it online: https://gleefulfork.com/creamy-street-corn-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-potluck-side-dish/