This Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delicious and refreshing dish that combines the flavors of grilled corn, tender pasta, and a creamy, zesty dressing. Inspired by the popular Mexican street food, elote, this pasta salad brings together the smoky and sweet notes of grilled corn with a creamy dressing, making it perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or as a side dish for any meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The grilled corn adds a smoky sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the creamy dressing, while the pasta gives the salad a satisfying heartiness. The addition of Cotija cheese, lime, and cilantro elevates the dish with fresh, tangy notes. What I really enjoy is how versatile it is—you can adjust the spice level and add your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it even more customizable.
Ingredients
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4 ears of fresh corn, grilled and kernels removed
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1 tablespoon vegetable oil
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1 (11-ounce) package of pasta (such as fusilli or bow tie)
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1 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
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½ cup mayonnaise
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¾ cup Mexican crema
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Zest and juice of 1 lime
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1 teaspoon chipotle pepper
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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⅓ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Grill the corn over medium heat, turning occasionally, until the kernels are charred and tender, about 10 minutes.
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While the corn is cooling, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Mexican crema, lime zest, lime juice, chipotle pepper, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
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Add the cooled pasta to the bowl and toss to coat with the dressing.
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Cut the grilled corn kernels off the cob and add them to the pasta mixture.
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Gently fold in the crumbled Cotija cheese and chopped cilantro.
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Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 8
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 15 minutes
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Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
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Spicy Kick: Add finely diced jalapeños to the salad for an extra layer of heat.
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Vegan Version: Use vegan mayonnaise and dairy-free crema, and substitute Cotija with vegan cheese crumbles.
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Protein Boost: Incorporate grilled chicken or black beans to make the salad more filling.
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Herb Swap: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, fresh parsley or basil can be used as a substitute.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed cold and doesn’t require reheating.
FAQs
How can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Prepare the salad as directed, but omit adding the avocado until just before serving to prevent browning. Refrigerate the salad and add the avocado with a squeeze of lime juice right before serving.
Can I use canned or frozen corn instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned or frozen corn. If using frozen, thaw and drain it before adding to the salad. For canned corn, drain and pat it dry to remove excess moisture.
Is there a substitute for Cotija cheese?
If you can’t find Cotija cheese, crumbled feta or queso fresco can be used as alternatives. Both provide a similar salty and crumbly texture.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, red onions, or cherry tomatoes can add color and crunch to the salad. Just ensure they are chopped evenly for consistent texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The recipe is not inherently gluten-free due to the pasta. However, you can substitute gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Conclusion
This Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, bringing together the smoky, creamy, and tangy flavors of Mexican street corn in a refreshing pasta salad form. Whether served at a summer barbecue, picnic, or as a side dish for dinner, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, it’s a dish that celebrates the essence of summer in every bite.
