Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad
Summer meals should be vibrant, fresh, and satisfying—and this Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad checks every box. It’s a light yet hearty salad that bursts with flavor in every bite. With the charred sweetness of corn, tangy lime, creamy cotija, and a creamy Greek yogurt dressing, it delivers a healthier twist on the beloved street corn flavor, all while being incredibly easy to whip up. Whether you’re prepping for a sunny picnic, a potluck side, or a meal prep lunch, this pasta salad brings comfort and nutrition to the table.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN HEALTHY STREET CORN PASTA SALAD
Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to create a balance of textures, flavors, and nutrients, transforming a simple dish into something truly memorable.
- Whole Wheat Pasta: Adds heartiness and fiber, making the salad more filling while giving it a subtle nutty flavor.
- Corn Kernels: Charred corn brings a naturally sweet and smoky flavor that mimics authentic street corn.
- Olive Oil: Used to sauté the corn and add healthy fats and richness.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Bring juiciness and bright acidity to contrast the creamy elements.
- Red Onion: Adds a bold bite and vibrant color.
- Cotija Cheese: Offers a salty, crumbly texture. Feta can be substituted for a tangier taste.
- Cilantro: Provides a fresh, herbal note that lifts the whole dish.
- Scallions: Deliver a subtle onion flavor and a pop of green.
- Garlic: Infuses depth and savory richness.
- Jalapeño (Optional): Adjusts the spice level to your preference.
- Avocado: Contributes creamy, healthy fats that make each bite luscious.
- Greek Yogurt: Used in the dressing to provide tanginess with added protein.
- Mayonnaise: Gives the dressing its classic creamy texture.
- Lime Juice: Adds zesty brightness that ties the whole salad together.
- Chili Powder: Sprinkled for warmth and a hint of smoky flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Essential to season and balance the final flavors.
HOW TO MAKE HEALTHY STREET CORN PASTA SALAD
Follow these beginner-friendly steps to assemble your perfect bowl of street corn pasta salad:
- Cook Pasta: Boil the whole wheat pasta until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and let it cool.
- Char Corn: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add corn and cook for 5–7 minutes until lightly charred. Set aside.
- Mix Salad Base: In a large bowl, combine the pasta, corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cotija cheese, cilantro, scallions, garlic, jalapeño, and avocado.
- Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and tweak with extra lime juice, salt, or pepper if needed.
- Chill: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR HEALTHY STREET CORN PASTA SALAD
Elevate your serving game with these creative ideas:
Colorful Platter
Serve in a shallow bowl, topped with more cotija, fresh cilantro, and a sprinkle of chili powder for a festive, flavorful display.
Portable Mason Jars
Layer the salad into jars for lunches or grab-and-go picnics. Just give them a shake before eating.
Lettuce Wraps
Serve spoonfuls in crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh, low-carb option.
With Grilled Meats
Pair with grilled chicken or shrimp for a well-rounded summer meal. The smoky char adds extra harmony.
HOW TO STORE HEALTHY STREET CORN PASTA SALAD
Keep leftovers tasting just as good as day one with these smart storage tips:
- Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- If storing for longer, keep dressing separate and mix before serving.
- Add avocado only when serving to prevent browning.
- Use glass containers to maintain freshness and avoid odor absorption.
CONCLUSION
This Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad isn’t just another summer dish—it’s a celebration of texture, color, and bold flavor. With its nutritious ingredients, beginner-friendly prep, and endless customizability, it’s sure to become a staple in your warm-weather meal plans. Whether you prep it the night before or serve it fresh off the stove, it brings the joy of street food into your kitchen in the healthiest, tastiest way possible.
Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 8 oz whole wheat pasta (penne or rotini)
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese (or feta)
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup scallions, thinly sliced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta until al dente. Rinse under cold water and set aside.
- Sauté corn in olive oil over medium heat until slightly charred, about 5–7 minutes.
- Combine pasta, corn, tomatoes, onion, cotija, cilantro, scallions, garlic, jalapeño, and avocado in a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayo, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour dressing over salad and gently toss to coat.
- Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving.
- Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Grill corn on the cob for deeper flavor.
- For a vegan version, use plant-based cheese and yogurt.
- Add honey to dressing for a touch of sweetness.
- Best served fresh but can be prepped a day ahead (add avocado later).
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to prepare?
Around 30–40 minutes of active prep and 30 minutes of chill time.
What can I use instead of cotija?
Feta, queso fresco, or a dairy-free alternative work well.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes! Just leave out the avocado until you’re ready to serve.
How do I adjust the spice level?
Add more jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce, or omit the pepper for a milder dish.
How do I char frozen or canned corn?
Pat dry and sauté in a dry skillet until slightly blackened.
