This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delightful fusion of two beloved dishes, combining the creamy, tangy flavors of traditional Mexican street corn with the comforting textures of pasta. Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or a simple weeknight dinner, it packs a punch of flavor with minimal effort. It’s fresh, vibrant, and sure to be a hit among your family and friends!

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. The combination of ingredients allows for a refreshing taste that brings together the sweetness of corn, the creaminess of the dressing, and the nuttiness of cotija cheese. It’s a fantastic way to celebrate summer flavors, and it’s adaptable for various dietary preferences. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a main course, this pasta salad will satisfy your taste buds and leave everyone craving more!

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Ingredients

8 ounces rotini pasta
2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside to cool.
While the pasta is cooking, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the corn kernels and cook them for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is slightly charred. Remove from heat and allow the corn to cool.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture until it’s well blended.
Add the cooled pasta, charred corn, cotija cheese, red onion, and cilantro to the bowl. Toss everything together until the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
Taste the pasta salad and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve immediately or refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This pasta salad can be served in a large bowl for sharing or plated individually. Garnish with additional cilantro or a sprinkle of cotija cheese on top to elevate its presentation. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, tacos, or even as a stand-alone dish at a picnic or barbecue.

How to Store Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

If you have any leftovers, store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for 3 to 5 days, although the flavors will continue to develop as it sits. Just give it a good stir before serving, as the dressing may thicken over time.

Tips to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

For added crunch, consider tossing in some diced bell peppers or jalapeños.
If you prefer a slightly spicier version, increase the amount of chili powder or add a few dashes of hot sauce.
To make it lighter, you can substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream, and use a lighter mayonnaise.

Variation

This recipe is highly versatile. You can incorporate additional vegetables like cherry tomatoes or avocado for extra freshness. For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken or black beans to make it a more filling meal. You can also switch out the pasta shape based on your preference or what you have on hand.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen corn works perfectly in this recipe. Just ensure it’s heated through and slightly charred for the best flavor.

2. Is this pasta salad gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap out the rotini pasta for a gluten-free pasta alternative.

3. Can I prepare this pasta salad in advance?
Absolutely! This pasta salad can be made a day ahead, allowing the flavors to meld together. Just be sure to keep it refrigerated and stir it before serving.