Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad combines the smoky-sweet charm of Mexican street corn (elote) with the cool, satisfying qualities of a pasta salad. It’s loaded with roasted corn, tender pasta, tangy cotija cheese, and a zesty creamy dressing. Perfect for BBQs, picnics, and quick dinners, this recipe is as versatile as our Hawaiian Mac Salad Recipe, which also shines at outdoor gatherings.
Why This Pasta Salad Stands Out
The magic is in the balance: sweet corn contrasts with the salty bite of cotija, fresh herbs bring brightness, and a chili-lime dressing ties it all together. Served chilled, it’s refreshing; served slightly warm, it’s indulgent. It offers the same comfort-meets-creativity vibe as our Chicken Crust Pizza Recipe, where bold flavors meet a fun twist.
Ingredients for Authentic Flavor
To get that signature taste and texture, start with fresh, quality ingredients:
- Sweet Corn – Fresh and grilled for smokiness; frozen or canned works.
- Pasta – Short shapes like rotini, cavatappi, or penne to hold the dressing.
- Cotija Cheese – Crumbly and salty; feta works as a substitute.
- Mayonnaise & Sour Cream – Creamy dressing base.
- Fresh Cilantro – Bright, herbal finish.
- Lime Juice – Balances richness.
- Chili Powder or Tajín – Mild spice and smoky depth.
- Garlic – Freshly minced for flavor complexity.
- Salt & Pepper – To taste.
For another creamy crowd-pleaser, see our Cottage Cheese Lasagna Recipe, which uses a rich dairy base in a savory way.
Pro Tip: Slightly overcook pasta compared to al dente, it absorbs dressing better and holds up when chilled.
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Cook the Pasta
- Boil salted water, cook pasta slightly past al dente. Drain and rinse under cool water to stop cooking.
- Prepare the Corn
- Grill fresh cobs until lightly charred, then slice off kernels.
- For frozen corn, sauté in butter until golden brown.
- Make the Dressing
- In a large bowl, whisk mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Assemble the Salad
- Add pasta, corn, cotija cheese, and chopped cilantro to the dressing. Toss gently to coat evenly.
- Chill Before Serving
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld and dressing thicken slightly.
Looking for the perfect bread pairing? Try our Cottage Cheese Bread Recipe, which offers a soft, flavorful side to complement creamy salads.
Secrets for the Best Creamy Dressing
- Balance Flavors: Lime juice brightens the rich base, chili powder adds warmth, and a pinch of honey (if needed) balances spice.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Add cilantro just before serving to keep it vibrant.
- Season After Chilling: Cold temperatures can dull flavors taste and adjust.
Serving Suggestions
Best served chilled, but can be enjoyed slightly warm if freshly made.
Pairs well with:
- Grilled chicken, steak, or BBQ ribs
- Pulled beef sandwiches
- Light salads or fresh fruit sides
If you enjoy versatile sides, explore our Cottage Cheese Flatbread Recipes, which are great for scooping salads or serving alongside main dishes.
Great drink pairings include sparkling lime water, agua fresca, or crisp white wine.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Fridge Life: Lasts 3–4 days in an airtight container.
- Avoid Sogginess: Store extra dressing separately and mix it in before serving leftovers.
- Cool Pasta First: Prevents greasy, separated dressing.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Cook pasta and corn a day ahead, assemble later.
For make-ahead events, the approach is similar to prepping our Cottage Cheese Flatbread Recipes, where separate storage keeps textures perfect.
Nutritional Snapshot (per 1-cup serving)
| Nutrient | Amount (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 340 kcal |
| Protein | 9 g |
| Carbs | 37 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
Healthier Swaps:
- Greek yogurt instead of mayo
- Whole wheat or chickpea pasta
- Extra vegetables like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes
- Reduced the cheese amount with more herbs
For more healthy comfort food inspiration, see our Cottage Cheese Brownies dessert with a protein boost.
FAQ Highlights
What’s the secret to a good pasta salad?
Balance well-seasoned pasta, flavorful dressing, fresh herbs, and contrasting textures.
Do you serve Mexican street corn salad hot or cold?
Best cold for creaminess and flavor blending, but slightly warm works when served fresh.
How long does it last in the fridge?
About 3–4 days in an airtight container.
Should pasta be cooled first?
Yes, cooling prevents dressing separation and keeps herbs fresh.
Final Tips for Perfect Results
- Grill corn for an authentic smoky flavor.
- Always cool pasta completely before mixing.
- Taste after chilling and adjust seasoning.
- Garnish before serving for color and freshness.
Like our Hawaiian Mac Salad Recipe, this Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad is a summer staple that blends comfort with bold flavors. Quick to make, easy to adapt, and guaranteed to please at any gathering.
Stay connected! Follow me on FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, and PINTEREST for the latest recipes and blog updates.