Is street corn pasta salad healthy?

A traditional street corn pasta salad can be high in calories and fat due to ingredients like mayonnaise, cotija cheese, and sour cream. However, by making strategic substitutions such as Greek yogurt instead of mayo/sour cream, using whole wheat pasta, and increasing vegetable content, it can be made into a nutritious and healthy dish.

What is elote pasta salad?

Elote pasta salad is a popular side dish inspired by Mexican street corn (elote). It typically combines cooked pasta with corn, cotija cheese, chili powder, cilantro, and a creamy dressing often made with mayonnaise, lime juice, and sometimes sour cream or crema.

How long does street corn pasta salad last?

When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, street corn pasta salad typically lasts for 3-4 days. It's best consumed within the first 2-3 days for optimal freshness and flavor.

Can you eat street corn pasta salad warm?

While most pasta salads are served chilled, street corn pasta salad can certainly be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. The flavors often meld beautifully when slightly warmed, especially if the corn was recently grilled or roasted.

What goes well with street corn pasta salad?

Healthy street corn pasta salad pairs wonderfully with grilled proteins like chicken, fish, or shrimp. It also complements other summer barbecue dishes, tacos, or as a vibrant side for any meal needing a fresh, zesty kick.

How do you make street corn pasta salad healthier?

To make it healthier, use whole-wheat or chickpea pasta, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise/sour cream in the dressing, reduce the amount of cotija cheese, and load up on fresh vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and extra cilantro. Grilled corn also adds flavor without extra fat.

Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad: The Ultimate Light & Creamy Summer Side 2025

Name: Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 8 oz short pasta, like rotini, fusilli, or farfalle; 3 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (thawed if frozen); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small red onion, finely diced; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 jalapeño, seeds removed and minced; 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta for a tangy swap); 1 avocado, diced (add just before serving); 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime); 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon cumin; Salt and black pepper to taste

Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad

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This Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad captures the vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn in a light, creamy pasta dish. With charred corn, a tangy Greek yogurt dressing, and fresh veggies, it is perfect for summer gatherings and quick meals.

Author: Harmony
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Salad
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz short pasta, like rotini, fusilli, or farfalle
3 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (thawed if frozen)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small red onion, finely diced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 jalapeño, seeds removed and minced
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta for a tangy swap)
1 avocado, diced (add just before serving)
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime)
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon cumin
Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cool water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Char the Corn: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the corn and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly charred and fragrant. This step brings out that authentic elote flavor.
Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
Combine Everything: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, charred corn, red onion, bell pepper, jalapeño, and cilantro. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Finish and Serve: Fold in the crumbled cotija cheese and diced avocado just before serving. Give it one final gentle toss. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Notes

Pro Tip: If making ahead, wait to add the avocado until you are ready to serve to keep it from browning. Smart Swaps: No cotija? Feta or queso fresco work beautifully. For a dairy-free version, skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative. Swap Greek yogurt with sour cream or a vegan yogurt if preferred.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
Calories: 285
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 320mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 12g
Cholesterol: 10mg

Find it online: https://harmonymeal.com/healthy-street-corn-pasta-salad/