Oh my goodness, have you ever had street corn? It’s this magical combination of sweet corn, zingy lime, and a sprinkle of chili that just dances on your taste buds! I absolutely adore how that vibrant flavor inspires this Street Corn Pasta Salad. It’s like summer on a plate, bursting with freshness and color. The creamy feta cheese and crunchy red bell pepper create this delightful contrast that makes every bite exciting. Plus, it’s super simple to whip up, making it a perfect side dish or a light meal. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll be hooked! This pasta salad is not just refreshing; it’s a celebration of flavor that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or just a cozy dinner at home!
Ingredients for Street Corn Pasta Salad
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making this delicious Street Corn Pasta Salad. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 8 oz uncooked pasta
- 2 cups corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor! You can easily swap in frozen corn if fresh isn’t available, but trust me, fresh corn really elevates the dish. And don’t skimp on the feta—it adds that creamy, tangy goodness that makes this salad shine!
How to Prepare Street Corn Pasta Salad
Getting this Street Corn Pasta Salad together is a breeze, and I promise it’ll become your go-to dish! Let’s break it down step by step so you can whip it up without a hitch.
Cooking the Pasta
First things first, let’s cook that pasta! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then toss in the 8 oz of uncooked pasta. Follow the package instructions for timing—usually around 8 to 10 minutes. You want it al dente, so it has a nice bite! Once it’s done, drain it and let it cool down. You can even rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process, which is super helpful!
Preparing the Vegetables
Now, while the pasta cools, let’s prep our veggies. If you’re using fresh corn, just cut the kernels off the cob. If you’re going with frozen, just give them a quick thaw. Next, dice up that vibrant red bell pepper and finely chop the red onion. Don’t forget the cilantro! Fresh herbs really make a difference here, adding that burst of flavor. The colors alone will brighten your kitchen!
Mixing the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the corn, red bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro. Once your pasta is cool, throw that in too! Make sure to mix everything together gently so the pasta doesn’t break apart. You want it all to be well-distributed for maximum flavor in every bite!
Making the Dressing
Now for the fun part—let’s make the dressing! In a small bowl, whisk together the 1/4 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of lime juice, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. You’re aiming for a creamy, smooth consistency that coats the pasta perfectly. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed—I like to add just a tad more lime for that zing!
Combining Everything
Finally, pour that delicious dressing over your pasta salad and gently toss everything together until it’s well-coated. The last step? Top it off with the crumbled feta cheese! Seriously, don’t skip this part; it’s the cherry on top! Now, your Street Corn Pasta Salad is ready to shine on your table!
Nutritional Information for Street Corn Pasta Salad
When it comes to a dish like this Street Corn Pasta Salad, you can indulge without the guilt! Here’s a quick look at the typical nutritional values per serving (about 1 cup):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 10g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use! But rest assured, this salad packs a punch of flavor and nutrition that’ll leave you feeling great.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Street Corn Pasta Salad comes together in just 25 minutes, making it a perfect last-minute dish for gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.
- Delicious Flavor Combinations: The sweet corn, zesty lime, and creamy feta create a mouthwatering blend that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and whole ingredients, this salad is not only tasty but also a nutritious option for any meal.
- Versatile Dish: Whether you’re serving it as a side or as a main course, this salad fits perfectly into any occasion, from barbecues to picnics.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp for an extra boost, or mix in other veggies to make it your own!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: It’s even better the next day, so you can prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld together in the fridge.
Tips for Success
To make your Street Corn Pasta Salad truly shine, I’ve got a few pro tips that you’ll definitely want to keep in mind!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh corn and vegetables. They add a vibrant taste and crunch that frozen options just can’t match. If you can get your hands on sweet corn from the farmer’s market, even better!
- Experiment with Proteins: If you’re looking to turn this salad into a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even black beans for extra protein. They complement the flavors beautifully and make the dish even more satisfying.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you love a kick, don’t hesitate to amp up the chili powder or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the dressing. On the flip side, if you prefer it milder, you can skip the chili powder entirely.
- Try Different Cheeses: While feta cheese is a classic choice, feel free to swap it out for crumbled cotija or even a creamy goat cheese for a different flavor profile. Each will bring its own unique twist!
- Make it Ahead of Time: This salad gets even better as it sits! Prepare it a few hours or even a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just give it a good toss before serving!
- Top with Avocado: For a creamy texture, add diced avocado just before serving. It brings a lovely richness and pairs perfectly with the other ingredients!
With these tips, you’re all set to create the perfect Street Corn Pasta Salad that’ll impress everyone at the table. Enjoy the cooking process and have fun with it!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got this delicious Street Corn Pasta Salad ready to go, you might be wondering what to pair it with. Trust me, it’s one of those versatile dishes that complements so many meals! Here are a few of my favorite serving suggestions:
- Grilled Meats: This salad is a match made in heaven with grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp. The smoky flavors from the grill perfectly contrast the freshness of the salad!
- Tacos: Serve it alongside your favorite tacos—beef, chicken, or even veggie tacos. The salad adds a refreshing crunch that balances out all those rich flavors.
- Fish Dishes: Lightly seasoned grilled fish or fish tacos can be elevated by a scoop of this salad on the side. The zesty lime and corn really brighten up the plate!
- Barbecue Spread: This pasta salad makes an excellent addition to any barbecue spread. It pairs beautifully with ribs, burgers, or hot dogs, bringing a fresh element to the feast.
- Light Desserts: For dessert, consider something light and fruity like a berry sorbet or a coconut panna cotta. The fresh flavors will keep the meal feeling light and summery!
- Chips and Salsa: If you’re in the mood for a casual gathering, serve the salad with some crispy tortilla chips and your favorite salsa for a fun and festive vibe.
No matter what you choose to serve with this Street Corn Pasta Salad, it’s sure to bring a burst of flavor and color to your table. Enjoy experimenting with different pairings, and let your taste buds lead the way!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your Street Corn Pasta Salad is super easy, and it’s great to know you can enjoy those delicious flavors later! First, make sure the salad is completely cooled before storing it. Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container, and it’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving again, as the flavors might settle a bit.
If you want to serve it chilled, you can eat it straight from the fridge, but if you’d prefer it at room temperature, just let it sit out for about 15-20 minutes before digging in. Now, if you’re thinking about reheating—while I usually enjoy this salad cold, you can certainly warm it up if that’s your vibe. Just pop it in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t get too hot! But honestly, I think it’s best served fresh and chilled, letting that zesty flavor really shine through. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ Section
Can I use canned corn for this salad?
Absolutely! Canned corn works great in this Street Corn Pasta Salad. Just make sure to drain and rinse it before adding it to the mix. It’ll still give you that sweet corn flavor without the hassle of cooking!
How long does this pasta salad last in the fridge?
You can store your Street Corn Pasta Salad in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just keep it in an airtight container, and it’ll stay fresh and delicious. Just give it a good stir before serving again!
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, I love making it a few hours or even a day in advance. Letting it sit in the fridge allows all those flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier when you serve it!
Is this salad gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version of this Street Corn Pasta Salad, simply use gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy this dish without worry!
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or want to avoid mayonnaise, you can swap it for Greek yogurt or even avocado for a creamy texture. Both alternatives will still keep the salad rich and delicious!
Street Corn Pasta Salad: 7 Zesty Ways to Ignite Flavor
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and delicious street corn pasta salad.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 cups corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine corn, red bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.
- Add the cooled pasta to the bowl and mix well.
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to coat.
- Top with crumbled feta cheese before serving.
Notes
- Serve chilled for best flavor.
- Add grilled chicken for extra protein if desired.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Street Corn Pasta Salad, Pasta Salad, Corn Salad, Vegetarian Salad