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corn pasta salad

Corn Pasta Salad

A colorful and flavorful salad made with cooked pasta, sweet corn, fresh herbs, and a creamy dressing, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 6 portions
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Bowl
  • Skillet

Ingredients
  

  • 4 oz cream cheese softened to room temperature
  • 1/3 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 to 2 cloves garlic grated
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives chopped
  • Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
  • 3/4 cup crumbled cotija or feta cheese
  • 1 lb short cut pasta such as penne or rotini
  • 1 head romaine lettuce shredded
  • 2 cups grilled or roasted corn about 3 to 4 raw ears
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves torn
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1/2 cup spicy cheddar cheese cubed
  • 4 tablespoons salted butter
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1/2 to 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper adjust to taste
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise or yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

Instructions
 

  • In a large salad bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, olive oil, grated garlic, fresh chives, and crumbled cheese. Season with salt and pepper and stir until smooth and creamy.
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, then drain and toss into the bowl with the dressing.
  • Add romaine lettuce, grilled corn, spicy cheddar, basil, cilantro, and avocado to the pasta and dressing mixture. Toss gently to combine.
  • In a skillet, melt salted butter over medium heat until golden. Stir in smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne, and a pinch of salt. Cook for another minute.
  • In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise or yogurt with lime juice and a pinch of salt.
  • Serve the pasta salad drizzled with lime mayo and spicy chili butter. Enjoy warm or chilled.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add more lime juice to the avocado to prevent browning.
Keyword Pasta Salad, vegetarian