How to Make Street Corn Pasta Salad Perfect for Summer

Summer is here, and that means it’s time for vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients! If you’re looking for a dish that’s not only delicious but also easy to whip up, then you’re in for a treat with my Street Corn Pasta Salad. This salad is perfect for summer gatherings, BBQs, or even a quick family dinner. With its creamy dressing and the crunch of fresh veggies, it’s a delightful twist on traditional pasta salads. Plus, it’s one of those easy pasta recipes that you can make in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for 30-minute meals.
• Loaded with fresh ingredients that scream summer.
• Versatile enough to serve as a side dish to go with chicken or as a main dish.
• Great for potlucks and parties—everyone will be asking for the recipe!
• Can be made ahead of time, making it a stress-free option for busy days.

Ingredients

To make this delightful Street Corn Pasta Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound pasta (any shape)
• 2 cups cooked corn kernels
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• ½ red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup freshly chopped cilantro
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s dive into the steps to create this scrumptious salad:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, corn, red bell pepper, red onion, and jalapeno.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to combine.
5. Add the chopped cilantro, toss again, and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some tips to ensure your Street Corn Pasta Salad turns out perfectly:

• For a creamier texture, you can add more mayonnaise or sour cream to the dressing.
• Feel free to customize the veggies based on what you have on hand—zucchini or cherry tomatoes would be great additions!
• If you like a bit of heat, leave some seeds in the jalapeno or add a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
• This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, making it an ideal side dish for parties.
• For a fun twist, try adding crumbled feta or cotija cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Serve

This Street Corn Pasta Salad is incredibly versatile! Here are some serving suggestions:

• Serve it chilled as a refreshing easy salad for BBQ gatherings.
• Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
• It makes a fantastic side dish for pulled pork sandwiches at your next cookout.
• Bring it to potlucks or picnics—it’s sure to be a hit!
• Enjoy it as a light lunch or dinner option, especially on those hot summer days.

Make Ahead and Storage

This salad is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:

• Make it a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen and become even more delicious!
• It can be stored for up to 3 days in the fridge, making it a great option for cold pasta salad dinner recipes.
• If you plan to serve it at a party, consider making a double batch—it’s that good!
• For best results, avoid adding the cilantro until just before serving to keep it fresh.

So there you have it! My Street Corn Pasta Salad is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of summer flavors that everyone will love. Whether you’re looking for weeknight dinner ideas or a dish to impress at your next gathering, this salad is sure to please. Don’t forget to check out my other delicious recipes like Beef Stir Fry, Ground Beef Stroganoff, and Cattle Drive Casserole for more inspiration. Happy cooking!