Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Corn
- If using fresh corn: Shuck and grill or sauté in a hot skillet with 1 tbsp olive oil until slightly charred.
- If using frozen or canned corn: Heat in a pan until lightly golden.
- Let it cool before mixing into the salad.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Dressing
- In a bowl, combine sour cream, cream cheese, mayo/yogurt, lime juice, minced garlic, butter (melted), chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt & pepper.
- Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, corn, chopped romaine, cilantro, basil, chives, diced avocado, and cheddar cheese.
- Pour the creamy dressing over the mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Finish with Cheese & Herbs
- Top with cotija or feta cheese, a sprinkle of chili powder, and extra herbs or lime wedges if desired.
Notes
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator:
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Freezing:
Not recommended due to dairy and avocado texture. Reheating:
If you prefer it warm, gently heat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or water. 🥄 Variations Vegan Version: Use vegan mayo, dairy-free cheese, and skip the cream cheese. Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans. No Mayo Option: Use Greek yogurt only for a lighter version. Extra Heat: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. Roasted Veggies: Add roasted bell peppers or zucchini. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta. Low-Carb: Substitute pasta with spiralized zucchini or cauliflower florets. Southwest Twist: Add black beans, red onion, and diced tomatoes. Leafy Base: Serve over a bed of arugula or mixed greens. Crunchy Topper: Sprinkle toasted sunflower seeds or crushed tortilla chips before serving. ❓ 10 FAQs Can I use canned corn?
Yes! Just drain it well and sauté for a few minutes to get some char and flavor. What kind of pasta works best?
Short pasta like rotini, shells, or elbows hold the sauce and mix-ins beautifully. Can I make it the night before?
Absolutely! Chill overnight and add avocado just before serving. Is this salad spicy?
It has a mild kick from cayenne and chili powder — reduce or skip cayenne if you prefer it mild. Can I skip the cream cheese?
Yes — the dressing will still be delicious with sour cream and yogurt or mayo. What cheese is closest to cotija?
Feta is a great substitute — both are crumbly, salty cheeses. How do I keep the avocado from browning?
Toss it in lime juice just before adding it to the salad. Can I serve this warm?
Yes! It’s great both warm and chilled. Can I use bagged salad greens?
Definitely — romaine, spring mix, or even shredded kale work well. Is this kid-friendly?
Yes! Omit the cayenne for a milder flavor and let kids enjoy the creamy, cheesy pasta with corn. 🏁 Conclusion This Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad is where comfort food meets summer freshness — rich, creamy, and full of spicy-sweet, zesty flavor. It's a versatile, vibrant salad that fits into any occasion, from casual lunches to festive cookouts. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, this dish proves that healthy food can be absolutely crave-worthy — all without pork, alcohol, or complicated steps.
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Freezing:
Not recommended due to dairy and avocado texture. Reheating:
If you prefer it warm, gently heat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or water. 🥄 Variations Vegan Version: Use vegan mayo, dairy-free cheese, and skip the cream cheese. Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans. No Mayo Option: Use Greek yogurt only for a lighter version. Extra Heat: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. Roasted Veggies: Add roasted bell peppers or zucchini. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta. Low-Carb: Substitute pasta with spiralized zucchini or cauliflower florets. Southwest Twist: Add black beans, red onion, and diced tomatoes. Leafy Base: Serve over a bed of arugula or mixed greens. Crunchy Topper: Sprinkle toasted sunflower seeds or crushed tortilla chips before serving. ❓ 10 FAQs Can I use canned corn?
Yes! Just drain it well and sauté for a few minutes to get some char and flavor. What kind of pasta works best?
Short pasta like rotini, shells, or elbows hold the sauce and mix-ins beautifully. Can I make it the night before?
Absolutely! Chill overnight and add avocado just before serving. Is this salad spicy?
It has a mild kick from cayenne and chili powder — reduce or skip cayenne if you prefer it mild. Can I skip the cream cheese?
Yes — the dressing will still be delicious with sour cream and yogurt or mayo. What cheese is closest to cotija?
Feta is a great substitute — both are crumbly, salty cheeses. How do I keep the avocado from browning?
Toss it in lime juice just before adding it to the salad. Can I serve this warm?
Yes! It’s great both warm and chilled. Can I use bagged salad greens?
Definitely — romaine, spring mix, or even shredded kale work well. Is this kid-friendly?
Yes! Omit the cayenne for a milder flavor and let kids enjoy the creamy, cheesy pasta with corn. 🏁 Conclusion This Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad is where comfort food meets summer freshness — rich, creamy, and full of spicy-sweet, zesty flavor. It's a versatile, vibrant salad that fits into any occasion, from casual lunches to festive cookouts. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, this dish proves that healthy food can be absolutely crave-worthy — all without pork, alcohol, or complicated steps.