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Street Corn Pasta Salad

Street Corn Pasta Salad
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This Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad combines the smoky, zesty flavors of Mexican street corn with tender pasta, creamy cheese, and fresh herbs. It’s a bold and refreshing side dish perfect for summer cookouts, potlucks, or meal prep.

Ingredients

  • 4 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
  • 1/3 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1–2 garlic cloves, grated
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 3/4 cup crumbled Cotija or feta cheese
  • 1 pound 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
  • 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper (adjust to preference)
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice

Instructions

  1. In a large salad bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, olive oil, grated garlic, chopped chives, salt, pepper, and Cotija or feta cheese to make the creamy dressing. Mix well until smooth.
  2. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente, then drain and toss it immediately with the dressing in the salad bowl while still warm.
  3. Add the shredded romaine lettuce, grilled or roasted corn, fresh basil, chopped cilantro, spicy cheddar cheese, and diced avocado. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
  4. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the salted butter until golden. Add smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir and cook for 1 minute, then remove from heat to make the chili butter.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise or yogurt with lime juice and a pinch of salt to make the lime mayo dressing.
  6. Serve the salad warm or cold. Drizzle with lime mayo dressing and spoon over the chili butter just before serving for added flavor.

Notes

  • Add avocado right before serving to prevent browning.
  • Use frozen or canned corn if fresh corn isn’t available; char in a hot skillet for best flavor.
  • Greek yogurt can substitute sour cream or mayo for a lighter option.
  • Adjust spice level by modifying cayenne and chili powder to taste.

Find it online: https://www.recipebyelena.com/street-corn-pasta-salad/