Description
A vibrant and flavorful pasta salad made with fresh ingredients and a spicy kick from chili butter.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 ounces room temperature cream cheese
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1–2 grated garlic cloves
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3/4 cup crumbled cotija or feta cheese
- 1 pound of short pasta
- 1 head romaine lettuce, shredded
- 2 cups grilled or roasted corn (from 3–4 fresh ears)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, torn
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup spicy cheddar cheese, diced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1/2 to 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper, adjust to preference
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise or yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
Instructions
- In a large salad bowl, combine all the ingredients for the dressing. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente, following package directions. Drain and toss with the dressing in the salad bowl.
- Add lettuce, corn, cheddar cheese, basil, cilantro, and avocado to the bowl. Toss to ensure even coating.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until golden. Stir in chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt. Cook for another minute and remove from heat.
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise or yogurt with lime juice and a pinch of salt.
- Serve the salad warm or cold, topped with lime mayo and chili butter.
- Let the salad sit for a bit to develop more complex flavors before enjoying.
Notes
- Adjust the level of cayenne pepper according to your spice preference.
- This salad can be served as a side or a main dish.
- For a healthier option, consider replacing sour cream and mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing and Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 50mg