Street Corn Pasta Salad for BBQs and Picnics
This Street Corn Pasta Salad is what happens when a regular pasta salad gets invited to a summer cookout and actually brings personality.
It is creamy, smoky, limey, a little spicy, and full of sweet corn, crisp peppers, herbs, and pasta that soaks up all the good stuff.
The shortcut is Milford Spice Company Street Corn. It gives you that chili-lime street corn flavor without mixing a bunch of different spices yourself.
Best for: BBQs, picnics, potlucks, grilled chicken, burgers, taco night, and easy make-ahead lunches.
Ingredients
12 oz short pasta, like rotini or shells
3 cups corn, grilled or charred in a pan
1 red bell pepper, finely diced
3 green onions, sliced
1/3 cup cilantro, chopped
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
1 tbsp lime juice
2 tsp Milford Spice Street Corn
1/2 cup cotija, feta, or crumbly cheese
Extra lime, for serving
How to Make It
1. Cook and cool the pasta.
Cook pasta until just tender. Drain, rinse with cool water, and let it dry for a few minutes so the dressing sticks better.
2. Char the corn.
Grill corn or cook it in a hot skillet until it gets some golden spots. This is what gives the salad that cookout flavor.
3. Make the dressing.
Mix mayonnaise, sour cream or yogurt, lime juice, and Milford Street Corn seasoning.
4. Toss everything together.
Add pasta, corn, bell pepper, green onions, cilantro, and dressing to a big bowl. Mix gently until coated.
5. Finish.
Top with crumbly cheese, extra lime, and another small sprinkle of Street Corn seasoning right before serving.
Can You Make It Ahead?
Yes. This salad is even better after 30 minutes in the fridge. If making it several hours ahead, save a little dressing and add it before serving so the pasta tastes fresh and creamy.
What to Serve It With
Serve it with grilled chicken, burgers, ribs, black bean tacos, roasted vegetables, or simple sandwiches. It is also good on its own as a cold lunch.
For a full cookout table, pair it with Pontiac Trail Pig Powder BOLD for grilled meats or vegetables.
Final Thought
This is a summer side dish people actually remember. It is easy, colorful, and tastes like grilled corn, lime, smoke, and sunshine.
Want that street corn flavor at home? Add Milford Spice Street Corn to pasta salad, corn on the cob, tacos, rice bowls, potatoes, popcorn, and roasted vegetables.