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Flavorful Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe with Zesty Lime Dressing

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A fresh and vibrant pasta salad featuring smoky charred corn, creamy pasta, and a zesty lime dressing, perfect for summer gatherings and potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz (340 g) rotini or bowtie pasta
  • 3 cups fresh corn kernels (about 4 ears) or frozen, thawed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for grilling corn and dressing base)
  • ½ cup mayonnaise (full-fat or light)
  • Juice of 2 large limes (about 3 tablespoons)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta as substitute)
  • 3 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz rotini or bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside and drizzle with a teaspoon of olive oil to prevent sticking.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat a grill pan or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Toss 3 cups of fresh corn kernels with 1 tablespoon olive oil and a pinch of salt. Spread in an even layer and let the corn char for about 3-4 minutes without stirring, then toss and char for another 2-3 minutes until some kernels are nicely blackened.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup mayonnaise, juice of 2 large limes (about 3 tablespoons), 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon chili powder, and salt & pepper to taste until creamy and bright.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta and charred corn. Pour the dressing over and toss gently until well coated. Add ¼ cup chopped cilantro, 3 thinly sliced green onions, and ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese. Toss lightly to distribute evenly.
  5. Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Before serving, stir gently and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or lime juice if needed.

Notes

For best flavor, do not skip charring the corn. Rinse pasta after cooking to stop cooking and prevent sticking. Chill salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. For dairy-free, use vegan mayo and omit or substitute cheese. Gluten-free pasta works well. Add avocado chunks just before serving for extra creaminess.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta salad, street corn, summer side dish, lime dressing, easy pasta salad, potluck recipe, grilled corn, creamy pasta salad

Find it online: https://prismtaste.com/flavorful-street-corn-pasta-salad-recipe-with-zesty-lime-dressing-easy-and-best-summer-side-dish/