Pasta Salad You NEED at Your Next Cookout

cotija cheese

🥗Healthier: feta cheese

💰Cheaper: parmesan cheese

Feta provides a similar tangy flavor, while parmesan is often more affordable.

mayonnaise

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: sour cream

Greek yogurt reduces calories while maintaining creaminess.

jalapeño

🥗Healthier: bell pepper

💰Cheaper: banana pepper

Bell pepper offers crunch without the heat, and banana peppers are often less expensive.

lime juice

🥗Healthier: lemon juice

💰Cheaper: vinegar

Lemon juice is a good substitute for a similar acidity, while vinegar is often cheaper.

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and transfer to a large mixing bowl. Set aside.

Char the corn: While the pasta cooks, heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter, cook until melted then add corn kernels and cook, stirring occasionally, until corn is charred/darkened in spots (usually about 5-8 minutes). Sprinkle with salt, stir, then remove from heat and transfer to the bowl with the pasta. Allow to cool slightly as you make the dressing and before you add the rest of the add-ins.

Make the dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, crema, lime juice, sugar, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until thoroughly combined.

Combine: Add the onion, cotija, cilantro, and jalapeño to the corn mixture. Drizzle the dressing overtop and stir well, until all ingredients are evenly incorporated and thoroughly coated with the dressing.

Serve. You can serve this pasta warm or cold, it’s delicious either way! Top with a sprinkling of chili powder before serving or serve with chili powder and/or tajin on the side for anyone to add to their individual dish before enjoying.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens