Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad

If you love the flavours of classic Mexican street corn (elite) and creamy pasta salads, you’re in for a treat with this fusion recipe! Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad combines tender pasta, sweet and juicy corn, and a zesty, tangy dressing, all tossed with fresh herbs and a hint of spice. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for sunny picnics, family barbecues, or as a vibrant side for any dinner spread.

This recipe is all about balance—smoky corn and crunchy veggies meet a creamy, citrusy sauce that wakes up your taste buds. You can whip it up in under an hour, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Additionally, you can customize the level of heat and tang to suit your family’s preferences.

Not only is this salad colourful and full of flavour, but it also travels well, making it ideal for potlucks, picnics, or meal prepping for the week. The fresh lime, cilantro, and just a pinch of chilli powder will give each bite a lively kick, while the creamy dressing brings it all together.

Whether you’re a corn lover, a pasta fan, or just looking for a refreshing new salad to try, this recipe is sure to become a favourite. Every forkful delivers a little sunshine and a lot of flavour. So, grab your apron and let’s turn humble ingredients into something deliciously memorable!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

- Fusion Flavors: Combines the zesty, smoky goodness of Mexican street corn with the comforting creaminess of classic pasta salad for a unique twist.

- Quick & Easy: Simple to prepare with basic kitchen tools and easy-to-find ingredients—great for busy days or weeknight dinners.

- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, and family gatherings. Its vibrant colours and bold flavours always get compliments.

- Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level, use your favourite pasta shapes, or add extras like avocado or black beans to make it your own.

- Fresh & Satisfying: Bursting with sweet corn, crunchy veggies, and a creamy, tangy dressing that keeps every bite interesting and refreshing.

Prep Time 15 mins

Cook Time 15 mins

Rest Time 15 mins

Total Time 45 mins

Cooking Method: Mixing, Sauteing

Cuisine: American

Courses: Dinner, Salad

Difficulty: Beginner

Servings: 6

Calories: 340

Best Season: Summer

Description

Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad combines tender pasta, sweet and juicy corn, and a zesty, tangy dressing, all tossed with fresh herbs and a hint of spice. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for sunny picnics, family barbecues, or as a vibrant side for any dinner spread.

Ingredients

For The Pasta Salad

3 cup Rotini Pasta Or Any Short Pasta (Uncooked)
2 cup Fresh Corn Kernels (From About 3 Ears Of Corn Or Frozen Corn, Thawed)
1 large Red Bell Pepper (Diced)
1/2 piece Red Onion (Finely Chopped)
1 large Jalapeño Pepper (Seeded And Minced)
1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro (Chopped)
1/2 cup Cotija Cheese Or Feta Cheese (Crumbled)

For The Creamy Dressing

1/2 cup Mayonnaise
1/3 cup Sour Cream
2 tbsp Fresh Lime Juice
2 cloves Garlic (Minced)
1 tsp Chilli Powder
1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika
3/4 tsp Salt (Quantity can be changed according to taste)
1/4 tsp Black Pepper

For Garnish (Optional)

Extra Crumbled Cotija Or Feta Cheese
Additional Chopped Fresh Cilantro
Lime Wedges
Extra Sprinkle Of Chilli Powder

Instructions

1
Cook The Pasta
Bring a large saucepan or pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the rotini pasta (or your preferred short pasta) and cook according to the package directions, usually 8–10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the pasta using a colander and rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta for the salad. Set aside.
2
Char The Corn
Heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the fresh corn kernels (or thawed frozen corn) to the dry pan—no oil is needed. Spread the corn into an even layer and let it cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes until it starts to char. Stir occasionally and continue cooking for another 5–6 minutes, until most kernels are lightly browned with some charred spots. Remove the corn from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
3
Prepare The Creamy Dressing
In a medium mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, fresh lime juice, minced garlic, chilli powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Set the dressing aside while you assemble the salad.
4
Assemble The Pasta Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled cooked pasta, charred corn, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, minced jalapeño, and chopped cilantro. Pour the creamy dressing over the ingredients. Use a rubber spatula or a large spoon to gently toss everything together until the pasta and vegetables are well-coated and evenly mixed. Add the crumbled cotija or feta cheese and fold it in gently. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
5
Chill And Serve
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 15–20 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld. Just before serving, give the salad a gentle toss and garnish with extra crumbled cotija or feta cheese, additional cilantro, lime wedges, and a sprinkle of chilli powder if desired. Serve chilled, and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Amount Per Serving
Calories 439.73kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 27.15g42%
Saturated Fat 9.44g48%
Cholesterol 53.13mg18%
Sodium 949.17mg40%
Potassium 387.76mg12%
Total Carbohydrate 38.68g13%
Dietary Fiber 3.74g15%
Sugars 6.31g
Protein 12.88g26%

Vitamin A 2105.61 IU
Vitamin C 44.16 mg
Calcium 247.73 mg
Iron 1.62 mg
Vitamin D 0.21 mcg
Vitamin E 2.34 mg
Vitamin K 38.65 mcg
Thiamin 0.2 mg
Riboflavin 0.48 mg
Niacin 2.43 mg
Vitamin B6 0.45 mg
Folate 57.8 mcg
Vitamin B12 0.77 mcg
Pantothenic Acid 1.11 mg
Phosphorus 277.63 mg
Magnesium 52.86 mg
Zinc 2.16 mg
Selenium 27.28 mcg
Copper 0.18 mg
Manganese 0.49 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

- Customize the Spice: Adjust the amount of chilli powder, add a dash of hot sauce for more heat, or omit it for a milder salad.

- Cheese Options: If cotija isn’t available, feta or even shredded Parmesan works as a great substitute.

- Make Ahead: This salad can be prepared a day in advance; give it a good stir before serving and refresh with a squeeze of lime, if needed.

- Add Protein: For a more filling meal, add cooked shredded chicken, grilled shrimp, or black beans.

- Fresh or Frozen Corn: Use fresh corn for the sweetest flavour, but frozen (thawed) or even well-drained canned corn works in a pinch.

- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute your favourite gluten-free pasta for a celiac-friendly alternative.

Keywords: creamy street corn pasta salad, Mexican pasta salad, summer pasta salad, elote pasta salad, easy potluck salad

Serving Suggestions

- Serve Chilled: This pasta salad tastes best when served cold, making it refreshing and perfect for hot summer days or outdoor gatherings.

- Side Dish or Main: Enjoy it as a hearty side alongside grilled meats, burgers, or barbecue, or serve as a satisfying vegetarian main course.

- Potluck Favorite: Bring it to picnics, cookouts, or potlucks—it’s easy to transport and holds up well, even after a few hours in a cooler.

- Meal Prep Lunches: Portion leftovers into airtight containers for quick, flavorful lunches throughout the week.

- Garnish Just Before Serving: For an extra pop of flavour and colour, sprinkle additional cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, and chilli powder over the top right before serving. Add lime wedges for a zesty kick.