Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Name: Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad that Everyone Will Love!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (elbow or rotini); 2 cups corn (fresh or frozen); 1/2 cup red onion, diced; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped; 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup sour cream; 1 lime, juiced; 1 tsp chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Posted on July 26, 2025

Salad

Introduction to Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up something delicious that everyone will love. That’s why I’m excited to share my Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad with you! This vibrant dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a quick solution for those hectic summer days. With its delightful blend of flavors inspired by traditional Mexican street corn, it’s perfect for gatherings or a simple family dinner. Trust me, this pasta salad will impress your loved ones and leave them asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a game-changer for busy days. It’s quick to prepare, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish. The flavors are a delightful explosion, combining sweet corn, zesty lime, and creamy cotija cheese. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser! Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or just need a tasty side, this salad is sure to brighten your table and your mood.

Ingredients for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad. Here’s what you’ll need:

Pasta: I love using elbow or rotini pasta for this salad. They hold the dressing beautifully and add a fun twist to each bite.
Corn: Fresh corn is ideal, but frozen works just as well. It brings that sweet, juicy flavor reminiscent of street corn.
Red Onion: Diced red onion adds a nice crunch and a pop of color. If you prefer a milder taste, you can soak it in cold water for a few minutes.

Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes provide a burst of freshness and sweetness. They’re like little jewels in your salad!
Cilantro: Chopped cilantro gives a fresh, herbaceous note. If you’re not a fan, parsley can be a great substitute.
Cotija Cheese: This crumbly cheese adds a creamy, salty element. Feta can be used if you can’t find cotija.

Mayonnaise: It creates a creamy base for the dressing. You can use Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and richness. You can swap it with more mayonnaise or yogurt if you prefer.
Lime: Fresh lime juice brightens the flavors and adds that zesty kick. Don’t skip this ingredient!

Chili Powder: This spice gives the salad a warm, smoky flavor. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning. Always taste and adjust to your liking.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing. Enjoy the process of gathering these ingredients, as each one plays a vital role in making this salad a hit!

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delicious Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a vibrant dish that’s sure to impress.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add your pasta. I usually go for elbow or rotini, as they hold the dressing well. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and let it cool. You can even rinse it under cold water to speed up the cooling process!

Step 2: Sauté the Corn

While the pasta cools, grab a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add your corn—fresh or frozen works great! Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until it’s slightly charred. This step adds a lovely depth of flavor, reminiscent of street corn. The sizzling sound is music to my ears!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, charred corn, diced red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped cilantro, and crumbled cotija cheese. Each ingredient brings its own flair, creating a colorful medley. I love how the colors pop, making it visually appealing!

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, fresh lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This creamy dressing is the heart of the salad. It ties everything together beautifully. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed. A little extra lime juice can brighten it up!

Step 5: Toss and Chill

Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss to combine. Make sure everything is well-coated. Now, cover the bowl and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together. Trust me, the wait is worth it!

Tips for Success

Always salt your pasta water; it enhances the flavor of the pasta.
For extra sweetness, try using grilled corn instead of sautéed.

Let the salad chill longer for even better flavor; overnight is ideal!
Adjust the chili powder to suit your family’s spice preference.
Garnish with extra cilantro or lime wedges for a fresh touch.

Equipment Needed

Large Pot: For boiling pasta. A deep saucepan works too.
Skillet: A non-stick skillet is ideal for sautéing corn. Any frying pan will do.

Mixing Bowls: Use a large bowl for the salad and a smaller one for the dressing.
Whisk: Perfect for mixing the dressing. A fork can work in a pinch!
Measuring Cups: Handy for precise ingredient amounts, but eyeballing works too!

Variations of Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Protein Boost: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans for added protein.
Vegan Option: Substitute mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan alternatives and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese.

Seasonal Twist: Incorporate diced bell peppers or zucchini for a seasonal touch.
Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or mint for a unique flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Pair with grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.

Serve alongside tortilla chips and salsa for a fun appetizer.
Complement with a refreshing margarita or iced tea.
Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges for a vibrant presentation.

Enjoy it at picnics or potlucks for a crowd-pleasing dish!

FAQs about Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Can I make this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

What can I substitute for cotija cheese?

If you can’t find cotija cheese, feta is a great alternative. It offers a similar crumbly texture and salty flavor that complements the salad perfectly.

How can I make this salad spicier?

For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or increase the amount of chili powder. You can also drizzle some hot sauce over the top before serving!

Is this salad gluten-free?

To make this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad gluten-free, simply swap the regular pasta for gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free!

Can I add more vegetables to this salad?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even avocado for added flavor and nutrition. The more, the merrier!

Final Thoughts

Creating this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is more than just making a dish; it’s about bringing joy to your table. The vibrant colors and bold flavors make it a feast for the senses. I love how it transforms a simple gathering into a celebration. Plus, it’s a breeze to prepare, making it perfect for busy days. Whether you’re enjoying it at a picnic or a family dinner, this salad is sure to spark smiles and compliments. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this culinary adventure—you won’t regret it!