Description
This Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad combines tender rotini pasta with charred fresh corn kernels, tangy lime-infused dressing, crisp red onions, fresh cilantro, and crumbled feta cheese. Perfectly balanced with a hint of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick, this salad is a refreshing, flavorful dish ideal for summer gatherings or potlucks.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Vegetables
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 2 cups fresh corn kernels (about 2 ears)
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese
- 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to cool it and stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- Grill Corn: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the fresh corn ears until they are nicely charred on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Let the corn cool, then carefully cut the kernels off the cobs.
- Prepare Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper until fully combined and smooth.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, grilled corn kernels, diced red onion, chopped cilantro, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Toss Salad with Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to evenly coat all ingredients.
- Chill Before Serving: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- For best flavor, use fresh corn grilled until nicely charred.
- The salad can be made a few hours ahead and refrigerated to deepen the flavors.
- To make this dish vegetarian, ensure the feta cheese is made without animal rennet.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level or omit for milder taste.
- This salad pairs well with grilled meats or as a standalone side for picnics.
