Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad

Indulge in the creamy and flavorful goodness of our Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad! This dish combines the classic flavors of street corn with the comforting elements of pasta salad, making it a delicious and versatile option for any occasion. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a dish that will surely impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

1. Bursting with flavors: From the smoky grilled corn to the creamy dressing, every bite is a burst of delicious flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
2. Quick and easy: This recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to bring to a potluck.
3. Perfect for meal prep: This pasta salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, making it a convenient option for meal prep throughout the week.

Ingredient Notes:

For the dressing:

• Cream cheese: Adds creaminess and richness to the dressing.
• Sour cream: Provides tanginess and helps to balance out the flavors.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity flavor and helps to emulsify the dressing.
• Garlic cloves: Infuse the dressing with a savory garlic flavor.
• Fresh chives: Add a hint of freshness to the dressing.
• Salt and pepper: Season to taste.
• Cotija or feta cheese: Adds a salty bite to the dressing.

For the salad:

• Short pasta: Choose your favorite type of short pasta for this dish.
• Romaine lettuce: Adds crunch and freshness to the salad.
• Grilled or roasted corn: Provides a smoky and sweet flavor.
• Fresh basil and cilantro: Add a burst of freshness to the salad.
• Spicy cheddar cheese: Adds a kick of heat to the dish.
• Avocado: Creamy and buttery, avocado adds a luxurious texture to the salad.

For the chili butter:

• Salted butter: Adds richness and flavor to the chili butter.
• Smoked paprika: Provides a smoky and earthy flavor.
• Chili powder: Adds heat and depth to the butter.
• Cayenne pepper: Adjust to your preference for spiciness.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix together the cream cheese, sour cream, olive oil, garlic, chives, salt, pepper, and crumbled cheese to create the dressing.
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions and let it cool.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the romaine lettuce, grilled corn, basil, cilantro, cheddar cheese, and avocado.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. In a small saucepan, melt the butter and stir in the smoked paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper.
6. Drizzle the chili butter over the salad and serve.

Helpful Tips:

• For a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream in the dressing.
• Add a squeeze of lime juice for a zesty kick to the salad.
• Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

1. Grill the corn for extra smoky flavor.
2. Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad with grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal. Pair it with a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea for a perfect summer dinner.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

Store any leftovers in the fridge and reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of water to revive the creaminess of the dressing.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh? Yes, you can use frozen corn if fresh is not available.
2. Can I make the dressing ahead of time? Yes, the dressing can be made ahead and stored in the fridge until ready to use.
3. Can I make this salad dairy-free? You can use dairy-free alternatives for the cream cheese and sour cream to make this salad dairy-free.
4. How long will this salad last in the fridge? This salad will last for up to 3 days in the fridge when stored properly.

Conclusion:

Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that combines the best of both worlds – street corn and pasta salad. It’s easy to make, bursting with flavors, and perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out for you!

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