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Fresh Cilantro Lime Street Corn Pasta Salad

fresh cilantro lime street corn pasta salad - featured image
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A vibrant and refreshing pasta salad featuring charred corn, fresh cilantro, and a creamy lime dressing, perfect for summer picnics and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz elbow macaroni or small shells
  • 3 cups fresh corn kernels (about 4 ears) or frozen, thawed
  • 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
  • Juice of 2 large limes (about 3 tablespoons)
  • ⅓ cup mayonnaise (80 ml)
  • ⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt (80 ml)
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (50 g)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz (340 g) of elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain well and toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Heat a grill pan or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Toss 3 cups of fresh corn kernels with a drizzle of olive oil. Spread in a single layer and cook, stirring occasionally, until kernels are slightly blackened and smoky, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
  3. In a bowl, whisk together ⅓ cup mayonnaise, ⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt, juice of 2 limes (about 3 tablespoons), 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon chili powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, charred corn, and 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro. Pour the dressing over and gently toss until everything is coated.
  5. Stir in ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a salty, savory boost.
  6. Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Before serving, give it a final stir and adjust salt or lime juice if needed.

Notes

For best results, char the corn slowly over medium-high heat to develop smoky flavor without burning. Salt pasta water generously to season pasta from within. Chill salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld. If dressing is too thick after chilling, loosen with a splash of water or more lime juice. Fresh cilantro is essential for authentic flavor; substitute with parsley or basil if needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: cilantro lime pasta salad, street corn pasta salad, summer pasta salad, picnic salad, creamy pasta salad, charred corn salad

Find it online: https://norasfoods.com/fresh-cilantro-lime-street-corn-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-and-best-for-summer-picnics/