Go Back
–+ servings
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad: A Creamy, Tangy Delight

Delight in the flavors of summer with this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, a creamy and zesty dish perfect for any gathering.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz small pasta (like rotini or penne) Use a shape that holds dressing well.
For the Vegetables
  • 2 cups sweet corn Fresh or frozen.
  • 1 cup red bell pepper Diced.
  • 1 small red onion Chopped.
  • 1/2 cup cilantro Chopped; optional.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup cotija cheese Crumbled; feta is a good substitute.
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter option.
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 3 Tbsp lime juice Fresh lime preferred.
  • 1 Tbsp lime zest
  • 1 tsp chili powder Adjust based on spice preference.
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder Fresh garlic can be used.
  • salt To taste.
  • black pepper To taste.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. Drain and Cool: Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow to cool completely.
  3. Prepare the Dressing: In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, lime zest, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Mix the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, corn, bell pepper, onion, cilantro, and cotija cheese.
  5. Combine Dressing with Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
  6. Chill Before Serving: Cover and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to meld flavors.
  7. Final Touches & Serve: Stir gently before serving and garnish with additional cheese, cilantro, and lime juice.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 5mg

Notes

Cool the pasta completely before mixing to prevent dressing from becoming runny. Adjust dressing quantity to personal preference.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!