Street Corn Pasta Salad

I still remember the first time I tasted Street Corn Pasta Salad at a friend’s backyard party. The sweet, smoky corn mixed with creamy pasta instantly blew me away—it was vibrant, zesty, and refreshing all at once. That day, I knew I had to recreate this magic in my own kitchen. This Street Corn Pasta Salad isn’t just a side dish; it’s a conversation starter, a summer favorite, and the perfect way to impress friends and family. Whether for a quick weekday lunch, a casual dinner, or a festive summer gathering, Street Corn Pasta Salad brings flavor, color, and joy to every bite.

Key Benefits of Street Corn Pasta Salad

Street Corn Pasta Salad is flavorful, easy to prepare, and perfect for quick lunches, summer dinners, or festive gatherings.

Benefits:

1. Quick and Easy: This Street Corn Pasta Salad comes together in minutes, making it ideal for busy weekday lunches or last-minute dinners.
2. Fresh and Flavorful: Sweet corn, colorful vegetables, and zesty seasonings create a refreshing dish full of vibrant taste.
3. Vegetarian-Friendly: Packed with wholesome vegetables and optional cheese, it’s a satisfying choice for vegetarians or anyone seeking a lighter meal.
4. Versatile: Serve it as a side, main dish, or snack; perfect for picnics, Labor Day weekend parties, or hot summer days.
5. Crowd-Pleaser: Its mix of textures and bold flavors makes Street Corn Pasta Salad a favorite for family gatherings and get-togethers.

Street Corn Pasta Salad Ingredients

Fresh, simple ingredients make Street Corn Pasta Salad quick to prepare while delivering vibrant flavors and a colorful, satisfying dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
• 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Street Corn Pasta Salad

Follow these simple steps to make Street Corn Pasta Salad, a fresh, flavorful dish perfect for summer meals or gatherings.

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
2. Prepare the corn by grilling, roasting, or sautéing it until slightly charred for extra flavor. Let it cool.
3. Mix the dressing in a small bowl: combine mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine vegetables and pasta in a large bowl. Add corn, red bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.
5. Add the dressing to the pasta and vegetables. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
6. Add feta cheese if desired, folding it in carefully to maintain texture.
7. Chill before serving for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve cold or at room temperature.

more recipes

• Scungilli Recipe: Delicious Italian Seafood Pasta & Salad Ideas
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta 
• Easy Salmon Pasta for a Delicious Meal

Pro Tips & Variations for Street Corn Pasta Salad

Enhance your Street Corn Pasta Salad with easy tips, flavor boosts, and simple ingredient swaps for a perfect summer dish.

Pro Tips:

• Use fresh corn when possible for the sweetest, most flavorful results.
• Char the corn lightly on a grill or stovetop pan for a smoky taste.
• Chill before serving to let flavors meld and make the salad more refreshing.
• Adjust spice levels with extra chili powder or a pinch of cayenne for a subtle kick.

Variations:

• Add avocado for creaminess and healthy fats.
• Swap feta for cotija cheese to give it a Mexican twist.
• Include black beans for added protein and texture.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter, tangier dressing.

Serving Street Corn Pasta Salad

Serve Street Corn Pasta Salad as a refreshing side, main dish, or snack, perfect for summer meals and festive gatherings.

• As a side dish: Pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp for a complete summer meal.
• As a main course: Add extra beans, avocado, or shredded chicken for a filling vegetarian-friendly or protein-packed option.
• For picnics or parties: Serve chilled in a large bowl with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for vibrant presentation.
• Snack option: Enjoy it straight from the fridge for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying bite anytime.

Try This Street Corn Pasta Salad – More Recipes on My Pinterest!

Street Corn Pasta Salad

A fresh, flavorful Street Corn Pasta Salad perfect for summer lunches, dinners, or festive gatherings. Easy, quick, and vegetarian-friendly.

5 from 1 vote

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course dinner, LUNCH, Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine American, Mexican

Servings 4

Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups Pasta Penne rotini, or your choice, cooked and cooled
• 2 cups Corn kernels Fresh frozen, or grilled for extra flavor
• 1/2 cup Red bell pepper Diced
• 1/2 cup Cherry tomatoes Halved
• 1/4 cup Red onion Finely chopped
• 1/4 cup Fresh cilantro Chopped
• 1/2 cup Feta cheese Optional
• 1/4 cup Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt Dressing base
• 1 tbsp Lime juice Freshly squeezed
• 1 tsp Chili powder Adjust to taste
• 1/2 tsp Smoked paprika Optional for smoky flavor
• – – Salt and pepper To taste

Instructions

 

• Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
• Prepare the corn: grill, roast, or sauté until slightly charred. Let it cool.
• Make the dressing: Mix mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Combine salad ingredients: In a large bowl, mix pasta, corn, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.
• Add dressing: Pour over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly.
• Optional cheese: Fold in feta cheese if using.
• Chill and serve: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Notes

• Use fresh corn for maximum sweetness and flavor.
• Adjust chili powder to taste for mild or spicy versions.
• Add avocado or black beans for extra protein and creaminess.
• Great for meal prep; keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days.

Keyword Dinner Ideas Greek, Pasta Salad Vegetarian, Street Corn Pasta Salad, Weekday Lunches