Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Name: Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad: A Fresh Flavor Twist!
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; 2 tbsp lime juice; 1 tsp chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Posted on August 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 yet quick. That’s why I absolutely adore this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad! It’s vibrant, refreshing, and packed with flavors that transport you straight to a sunny street market in Mexico. This dish is perfect for those hectic days when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a delightful meal that everyone will love. Trust me, this salad is a game-changer!

Why You’ll Love This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a lifesaver for busy days! It comes together in just 25 minutes, making it a quick solution for lunch or dinner. The combination of sweet corn, zesty lime, and creamy cotija cheese creates a flavor explosion that will have your family asking for seconds. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as a side dish or a main course, making it a true crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad a hit! Here’s what you’ll need:

Pasta: Elbow or rotini works best, but feel free to use your favorite type. It’s the base of this salad, providing that satisfying bite.
Corn: Fresh corn is ideal for sweetness, but frozen corn is a great time-saver. Both options bring that delightful crunch!
Red Onion: Diced red onion adds a pop of color and a mild bite. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, try using green onions instead.

Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes bring juiciness and a burst of flavor. You can swap them for diced bell peppers for a different twist.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous note. If you’re not a fan, parsley can be a good substitute.
Cotija Cheese: This crumbly cheese is a must for that authentic Mexican flavor. If you can’t find it, feta or queso fresco will work too!

Mayonnaise: It creates a creamy dressing that binds everything together. For a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a fantastic alternative.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice adds a zesty kick. Don’t skimp on this; it brightens the entire dish!
Chili Powder: This spice gives the salad a warm, smoky flavor. Adjust the amount to suit your taste, or add cayenne for extra heat.

Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, these simple ingredients enhance all the flavors in the salad.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing!

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delightful Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a colorful dish that’s bursting with flavor in no time.

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 because 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: Prepare the Vegetables

While the pasta cools, it’s time to chop! Dice the red onion and halve the cherry tomatoes. If you’re using fresh corn, you can cut it off the cob now. The sweet crunch of fresh corn is unbeatable! Toss all these colorful veggies into a large mixing bowl. The vibrant colors will make your salad pop!

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lime juice, and chili powder. This creamy dressing is what ties everything together. If you want a little more zing, feel free to add extra lime juice. Taste it as you go; it should be zesty and creamy, with just the right amount of spice!

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Now, it’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the veggies. Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss everything together. Make sure every piece of pasta is coated in that delicious dressing. It’s like a flavor hug for your taste buds!

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finally, sprinkle the crumbled cotija cheese on top. This adds a lovely salty finish that complements the sweetness of the corn. Serve your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad immediately, or let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Enjoy every bite!

Tips for Success

Make sure to salt your pasta water; it enhances the flavor of the pasta.
For a creamier texture, let the salad sit for a bit before serving.
Use fresh ingredients whenever possible for the best flavor.

Adjust the chili powder to your spice preference; start with less if you’re unsure.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.

Equipment Needed

Large Pot: For boiling pasta. A deep skillet can work in a pinch.
Colander: To drain the pasta. A slotted spoon can also do the job.
Mixing Bowls: Use two bowls for mixing ingredients and dressing. Any large bowl will suffice.

Whisk: For blending the dressing. A fork can work if you don’t have one.
Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for chopping veggies. A sturdy plate can substitute for a cutting board.

Variations of Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra layer of heat.

Protein Boost: Toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or black beans for a heartier meal.
Vegan Option: Substitute mayonnaise with avocado or a vegan mayo, and skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
Grilled Flavor: Grill the corn before adding it to the salad for a smoky taste that elevates the dish.

Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or mint for a unique twist on flavor.

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 spread.

Complement with a refreshing limeade or iced tea.
Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges for a vibrant presentation.
Enjoy it chilled for a perfect summer picnic 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 store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it’ll be ready to serve when you are!

What can I substitute for cotija cheese?

If you can’t find cotija cheese, don’t worry! Feta or queso fresco are excellent alternatives that will still give you that creamy, salty finish.

Is this salad gluten-free?

To make this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad gluten-free, simply swap the regular pasta for a gluten-free variety. There are plenty of delicious options available now!

How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just give it a good stir before serving again!

Can I add more vegetables to this salad?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative. Diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even avocado can add extra flavor and nutrition to your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad.

Final Thoughts

Making this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating joyful moments around the table. The vibrant colors and bold flavors bring a sense of celebration to any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a summer barbecue. I love how this dish can be a quick fix on busy days or a delightful centerpiece for gatherings. Each bite is a reminder of the warmth of home and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones. Trust me, this salad will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!