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Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad – Creamy, Zesty & Flavor-Packed

If you’re looking for a dish that’s fresh, creamy, and bursting with flavor, this Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad is exactly what you need. Inspired by the bold flavors of Mexican street corn (elote), this pasta salad combines smoky, zesty, and creamy notes into a hearty and nutritious dish that’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a light yet filling dinner. Unlike traditional heavy pasta salads, this version gets a makeover with avocado, fresh herbs, Greek yogurt or mayo, and a mix of cheeses. Tossed with roasted corn, smoked paprika, chili powder, and lime juice, it’s a dish that brings together the best of summer and comfort food in one bowl. This salad can easily be customized for your preferences—keep it creamy, make it spicy, or add extra greens for freshness. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to make on repeat.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Salad:
  • 1 lb short pasta penne, rotini, or shells work best
  • 2 cups corn kernels fresh, canned, or frozen
  • 4 tbsp butter salted
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 avocado diced
  • ½ cup fresh basil leaves
  • 1 tbsp fresh chives chopped
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1 garlic clove minced
  • 1 head romaine lettuce chopped
  • ½ cup spicy cheddar cheese shredded
  • ¾ cup cotija or feta cheese crumbled
For the Creamy Dressing:
  • 4 oz cream cheese softened
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for lighter option
  • ⅓ cup sour cream
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lime juice freshly squeezed
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Equipment

  • Large pot (for cooking pasta)
  • Strainer or colander
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Skillet (for roasting corn)
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil.
  2. Cook pasta until al dente, according to package directions.
  3. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
Step 2: Roast the Corn
  1. Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add corn kernels, chili powder, paprika, cayenne, and garlic.
  3. Cook until corn is golden and slightly charred (about 5–7 minutes).
  4. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
  1. In a bowl, whisk cream cheese, mayonnaise (or yogurt), sour cream, olive oil, and lime juice until smooth.
  2. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine pasta, roasted corn, avocado, romaine, basil, cilantro, chives, and cheddar cheese.
  2. Pour dressing over and toss until well coated.
Step 5: Finish & Serve
  1. Top with crumbled cotija or feta cheese.
  2. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Not recommended, as dairy-based dressing may separate.
Reheating: Best served cold, but if you want it warm, lightly toss pasta in a skillet before adding fresh toppings.
🥄 Variations
Lighter Version: Use all Greek yogurt instead of mayo and sour cream.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or extra cayenne.
Grilled Corn Option: Grill whole corn cobs and slice off kernels for smoky flavor.
Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans.
Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cream cheese, yogurt, and cheese substitutes.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, but add avocado and lettuce right before serving to keep fresh.
2. Can I use canned corn?
Yes—just drain and roast briefly in a skillet for extra flavor.
3. What pasta shape works best?
Short pasta like rotini, penne, or shells that hold dressing well.
4. Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta.
5. Can I substitute cotija cheese?
Yes, feta is a great substitute with a similar salty tang.
6. How spicy is this salad?
It’s mildly spicy, but you can adjust cayenne and chili powder.
7. Can I use frozen corn?
Yes—thaw, pat dry, and roast in the skillet.
8. How do I keep pasta salad from drying out?
Don’t overcook pasta, and add a splash of olive oil before mixing.
9. Can kids eat this recipe?
Yes—reduce or omit cayenne for a kid-friendly version.
10. What can I serve with this salad?
Great with grilled meats, tacos, or as a standalone lunch.
🏁 Conclusion
This Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad is everything you love about creamy pasta salad with the zesty, smoky flavors of street corn. Packed with fresh herbs, avocado, and cheeses, it’s hearty enough for a main dish yet refreshing enough as a side.
Perfect for barbecues, family gatherings, or weeknight meals, this salad proves that comfort food can also be nourishing. Once you make it, you’ll find yourself craving it year-round.