Street Corn Pasta Salad that Will Brighten Your Summer Meals

Delight in this vibrant Street Corn Pasta Salad, a summer favorite bursting with flavors and perfect for gatherings.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 20

Chilling Time 30

Total Time 1 5

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Salad

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 280

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 ounces elbow macaroni or penne Any short pasta can be used.

For the Corn

2 cups sweet corn kernels Fresh or frozen; canned corn is an option but may alter texture.
2 tablespoons butter Olive oil can be used for a lighter option.

For the Heat

1 medium jalapeño pepper Omit or replace with a milder pepper if desired.

For the Dressing

½ cup mayonnaise Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter dressing.
2 tablespoons lime juice Lemon juice can be used in place of lime.
1 teaspoon chili powder Paprika can be used for less heat.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika Regular paprika can work if smoked is not available.

For the Finish

¼ cup chopped cilantro leaves Parsley can be used if cilantro is not preferred.
½ cup cotija cheese Feta cheese can be an alternative.
to taste salt
to taste black pepper

Equipment

large pot
colander
Large Skillet
mixing bowl
Airtight container

Method

Cooking Steps

Boil a large pot of salted water. Add macaroni or penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente, around 7-9 minutes, then drain and rinse under cold water.
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat and add sweet corn kernels, cooking for 8-10 minutes until charred and caramelized.
Sprinkle chili powder and smoked paprika into the charred corn, stir to combine, and let it cool slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, charred corn, mayonnaise, lime juice, cilantro, cotija cheese, and jalapeño if using. Toss gently until well mixed.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Serve chilled, giving it a gentle toss before enjoying alongside grilled meats or on its own.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 7gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This salad can be made a day in advance for deeper flavors. Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months with caution on texture.

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