Street Corn Pasta Salad | Creamy Chili Lime BBQ Side Dish

Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

This Street Corn Pasta Salad is creamy, zesty, and loaded with bold flavor. Inspired by Mexican street corn, it combines charred corn, chili lime dressing, cotija cheese, and tender pasta into one unforgettable side dish. Whether you’re headed to a BBQ, picnic, or summer party, this salad is guaranteed to steal the show. Perfect for potlucks and meal prep alike, it’s a crowd-pleasing fusion of freshness and indulgence.

Ingredients

8 oz (225g) pasta (elbow, bowtie, or rotini)
2 cups corn (grilled, roasted, or canned)
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
1/2 tsp chili powder
Juice of 1 lime
1/3 cup crumbled cotija or feta cheese
2 tbsp chopped cilantro
1/4 cup diced red onion
Salt & pepper to taste
Optional: dash of hot sauce or sliced jalapeños for extra heat

Instructions

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Let cool completely.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream or yogurt, chili powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper. This creamy chili lime dressing is what gives the salad its signature flavor.
Add the cooled pasta to the bowl along with the corn, red onion, cilantro, and crumbled cheese. Toss until everything is evenly coated in the dressing.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning, and top with extra lime, cheese, or a drizzle of hot sauce if desired.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Mexican-style pasta salad blends the bold, smoky notes of street corn with the creaminess of a classic BBQ side dish. It’s easy to make in advance, serves a crowd, and is endlessly customizable. Perfect for summer cookouts, family gatherings, or meal prep, this dish can also be made vegetarian or gluten-free with simple swaps. From backyard barbecues to weeknight dinners, this chili-lime corn salad always brings the flavor.

Tips & Variations

Make it lighter: Use plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and light mayo for a healthier version.
Go spicy: Add chopped jalapeños, a dash of cayenne, or your favorite hot sauce for heat.
Add protein: Mix in grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans to turn this side into a complete meal.
Serve warm or cold: While it’s great chilled, this salad can also be served slightly warm as a cozy side dish.

Estimated Nutrition

Calories: 320 | Protein: 8g | Carbs: 28g | Fat: 18g | Fiber: 3g (based on one serving, approx. 1 cup)

Perfect for Every Occasion

This pasta salad with corn is a versatile dish that fits into any season but shines brightest