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Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad
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Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad

A vibrant, creamy pasta salad combining grilled corn, chili-spiced butter, and a tangy cream cheese-sour cream dressing. Packed with herbs, avocado, and cotija cheese, this vegetarian-friendly dish is perfect for gatherings.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Snacks & Appetizers
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 520kcal
Author: Samantha Jones

Ingredients

  • 1 lb short pasta (such as penne or rotini)
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1/2 to 2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/3 cup sour cream
  • 4 oz cream cheese, room temperature
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 to Heavy garlic cloves
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 3/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese
  • 1/2 cup diced spicy cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups grilled or roasted corn kernels
  • 1/2 cup torn fresh basil leaves
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 diced avocado
  • 1 head shredded romaine lettuce
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp fresh lime juice

Instructions

  • Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the short pasta and cook until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside in a large mixing bowl.
  • Make the creamy dressing: In a separate bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, olive oil, grated garlic, chives, salt, pepper, and cotija cheese. Mix until smooth.
  • Prepare chili butter: Melt butter with smoked paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper. Drizzle over cooked pasta.
  • Combine ingredients: Add grilled corn, torn basil, cilantro, diced avocado, and shredded romaine to the pasta. Toss with the chili butter mixture.
  • Add dressing: Fold in the prepared cream cheese dressing until well combined.
  • Finish with toppings: Sprinkle with diced spicy cheddar cheese and freshly lime juice before serving.
  • Chill and serve: Refrigerate for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

Adjust chili powder/paprika to desired heat
Cotija cheese can be substituted with feta (non-prohibited) if unavailable
Add extra lime juice before serving for freshness