Introduction
Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe brings together the best of two worlds—classic elote-style corn and a refreshing pasta salad—into one irresistible, wholesome dish. Perfect for summer gatherings, BBQs, or meal prep, this vibrant salad delivers creamy, zesty, and smoky Mexican-inspired flavors without the heavy calories.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!With tender whole wheat pasta, roasted corn, juicy tomatoes, and a light lime dressing, this Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe satisfies your craving for comfort food while keeping your nutrition goals intact. Whether you call it a Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe or an Elote-Inspired Pasta Salad, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Zesty Mexican Flavor: Inspired by traditional elote, with chili-lime brightness in every bite.
Nutritious & Wholesome: Made with whole wheat pasta and fresh veggies.
High-Protein Option: Add grilled chicken or tofu for a complete meal.
Quick & Simple: Ready in under 30 minutes—ideal for busy weeknights.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Flavors deepen after chilling overnight.
Creamy Yet Light: Feta or cotija cheese adds richness without extra heaviness.
Customizable: Perfect for gluten-free, vegetarian, or high-protein diets.
Discover-Worthy: Visually stunning and refreshing for summer BBQs and picnics.
Ingredients
Pasta & Vegetables
8 ounces whole wheat pasta (rotini or penne) – for fiber and texture.
2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned) – the hero ingredient.
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – for color and juiciness.
½ cup red onion, finely chopped – adds crunch and sharp flavor.
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped – enhances freshness.
Optional: 1 avocado, diced – adds creaminess and healthy fats.
Dressing & Toppings
1 tablespoon olive oil – heart-healthy fat for balance.
Juice of 2 limes – brightens and lifts the dressing.
1 teaspoon chili powder – mild spice for that street corn vibe.
½ teaspoon smoked paprika – adds depth and warmth.
Salt and pepper to taste.
½ cup feta cheese, crumbled – or cotija for authentic flair.
How to Make It
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil the whole wheat pasta until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and maintain a firm texture. Set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Corn
For fresh corn, boil for 5 minutes, then cut off the kernels.
For frozen corn, thaw and pat dry.
For canned corn, rinse and drain thoroughly.
If you prefer a Healthy Roasted Corn Pasta Salad Recipe, roast the corn in a skillet until golden brown for added smoky flavor.
3. Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine pasta, corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro. Toss lightly to distribute the ingredients evenly.
4. Make the Dressing
Whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. The combination creates a zesty Street Corn dressing that balances tang and spice beautifully.
5. Toss & Coat
Pour the dressing over the pasta mix and toss until every bite is coated with that flavorful chili-lime dressing.
6. Add Toppings
Fold in feta cheese and avocado (if using). Be gentle so the avocado holds its shape.
7. Chill & Serve
Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature for maximum flavor.
Pro Tips
How do you make a pasta salad not soggy?
Rinse pasta in cold water immediately after boiling. This stops cooking and removes excess starch.
Can I make this Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe ahead of time?
Yes! It tastes even better the next day. Store it in an airtight container and stir before serving.
What’s the best pasta for this salad?
Short varieties like rotini or penne hold the dressing well and provide a nice bite.
Can I make it vegan?
Absolutely—skip the feta or replace it with plant-based cheese.
Best Ways to Serve
This Healthy Mexican Corn Pasta Salad Recipe pairs beautifully with:
Grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
BBQ dishes like ribs or burgers for a smoky summer spread.
Tacos and burrito bowls for a Mexican-inspired feast.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 280 | — |
| Protein | 9g | 18% |
| Carbohydrates | 35g | 12% |
| Fat | 10g | 15% |
| Fiber | 4g | 16% |
| Sodium | 240mg | 10% |
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store in a sealed container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Not recommended—fresh veggies may lose texture.
Reheating: Best enjoyed cold, but you can warm it slightly if preferred.
Pro Tip: Add a squeeze of lime before serving leftovers to refresh the flavors.
FAQs
How do I make a lighter version without cheese?
Replace feta with a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or mashed avocado for creaminess.
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes! Brown rice or lentil pasta works perfectly for a gluten-free Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe.
What kind of corn works best?
Fresh corn delivers the best crunch, but roasted frozen corn gives excellent smoky flavor too.
Variations
High-Protein Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
Low-Calorie Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe: Skip the cheese and reduce oil to half.
Spicy Version: Mix in diced jalapeños or chipotle powder.
Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe: Stir in Greek yogurt or light mayo for a velvety finish.
Vibrant Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe: Include colorful bell peppers for added texture.
Conclusion
This Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe isn’t just a salad—it’s a celebration of freshness, flavor, and balance. With every bite, you’ll taste creamy feta, zesty lime, and the natural sweetness of corn—all wrapped in a wholesome, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion.