Name: Street-Corn Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz rotini pasta; 2 ears fresh corn (grilled); 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved); 1/4 cup red onion (finely chopped); 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped); Juice of 1 lime; 1 avocado (diced); 1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled); 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Print Recipe

The sun shines down on a vibrant bowl of Street-Corn Pasta Salad, where fresh corn kernels dance around in a medley of colors, flavors, and textures. The aroma of grilled corn mingles with zesty lime and creamy avocado, promising a flavor explosion that’ll make your taste buds do the cha-cha. avocado corn pasta combination It’s the perfect dish for summer barbecues, family picnics, or simply when you want to impress your friends with your culinary prowess.

Picture this: a lazy Sunday afternoon, and you’re lounging on the patio while friends gather around. You pull out this showstopper salad, and suddenly everyone is asking for the recipe. It’s that kind of dish—easy to make yet bursting with delightful flavors that evoke memories of summer adventures. Get ready to dive into something spectacular!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Street-Corn Pasta Salad is incredibly easy to prepare; you’ll have it ready in no time
The flavors explode in your mouth, making every bite a joy
Its vibrant colors will brighten any table and impress your guests effortlessly
Perfect as a side dish or a main event at any gathering!

My cousin once declared this salad the “king of all summer salads” after devouring three servings at our family reunion.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pasta: I prefer using rotini or fusilli because they catch all the dressing and goodies perfectly.
Fresh Corn: Grilled or roasted corn adds a smoky sweetness that’s unbeatable; use fresh cobs for the best flavor. spicy shrimp taco pairing.
Cherry Tomatoes: Opt for colorful varieties; they add sweetness and a pop of color to the salad.
Red Onion: A finely chopped red onion provides a sharp contrast to the sweetness of the corn; soak it in water first to mellow its bite.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds an aromatic touch that brightens up every bite; feel free to adjust according to your taste.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice gives that zesty kick; bottled just won’t cut it here.
Avocado: Creamy avocado chunks bring richness that complements all the other flavors beautifully.
Feta Cheese: Feta crumbles add creaminess and tanginess; you can substitute with goat cheese if you prefer.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of good-quality olive oil enhances all those vibrant flavors and keeps everything cohesive.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning; don’t forget these little guys—they elevate everything!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil over high heat. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

Grill the Corn: While pasta cooks, grill fresh corn on medium-high heat until charred and tender, about 10 minutes total. Let cool before cutting off kernels.

Chop Veggies: Dice cherry tomatoes, finely chop red onion, cilantro, and avocado into bite-sized pieces. The more colorful your chopping board looks, the better!

Toss Everything Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta with corn kernels, diced veggies, lime juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and feta cheese. Gently fold everything together until well mixed.

Chill & Serve!: Cover salad with plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld beautifully—trust me on this one!

Add Finishing Touches: Before serving, give it another squeeze of lime juice for brightness and top with extra cilantro if desired.

This Street-Corn Pasta Salad is more than just food—it’s an invitation to gather around the table with loved ones and enjoy life’s flavorful moments together! delicious pasta salad option.

You Must Know

Street-Corn Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of flavors; it’s colorful and perfect for any gathering
The vibrant ingredients create an irresistible aroma that will bring everyone to the table
Plus, it’s easy to customize based on your taste preferences, ensuring it’s always a hit!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling your pasta until al dente, then grill corn while preparing the dressing. This sequence saves time and enhances flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out vegetables or add grilled chicken for extra protein. Experiment with different herbs for a unique twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Serve chilled or at room temperature for best taste.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To make your Street-Corn Pasta Salad truly stand out, use freshly squeezed lime juice instead of bottled
Always taste as you go, adjusting seasonings for your palate
Lastly, let the salad rest for at least 30 minutes before serving; this allows flavors to meld beautifully

Street-Corn Pasta Salad has become my go-to dish for summer gatherings; friends rave about it every time I make it! crispy corn side dish.

FAQ

What types of pasta work best in Street-Corn Pasta Salad?

For more inspiration, check out this Savory Mexican Birria Tacos recipe.

Use short pasta shapes like rotini or penne to capture the dressing and corn bits perfectly.

Can I make Street-Corn Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it a day in advance; just add fresh herbs right before serving.

Is Street-Corn Pasta Salad vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! This salad is naturally vegan when made without cheese or creamy dressings.