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Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

5.1 from 11 reviews

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delicious twist on traditional street corn, combining pasta with the flavors of grilled corn, cotija cheese, and a zesty lime dressing.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta Salad:

  • 3 cups (250 g) cooked pasta (rotini, penne, or bowtie work well)

Corn Mixture:

  • 2 cups (300 g) fresh or frozen corn kernels (grilled or roasted, if possible)
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup (30 g) chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/4 cup (30 g) crumbled cotija or feta cheese
  • 1 jalapeño, diced (optional, for heat)

Dressing:

  • 1/3 cup (80 ml) mayonnaise
  • 1/3 cup (80 ml) sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) freshly squeezed lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish:

  • Extra cotija or feta cheese
  • Lime wedges
  • A sprinkle of Tajín or extra chili powder

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
  2. Prepare the Corn: If using fresh corn, grill or roast the kernels until lightly charred for added flavor. If using frozen corn, heat in a skillet over medium-high heat until slightly charred or golden. Allow the corn to cool.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, corn, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, cotija or feta cheese, and jalapeño (if using).
  5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
  6. Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  7. Garnish with extra cotija cheese, a sprinkle of Tajín or chili powder, and lime wedges if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican, Street Corn, Pasta Salad, Easy, Summer, Vegetarian