Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

Zesty Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe for Summer Fun

Creamy and zesty mexican street corn pasta salad brings summer flavors dancing onto your plate with vibrant intensity.

Kernels of sweet corn mingle with tangy lime and rich cheese, creating a mouthwatering melody of textures.

Fresh cilantro adds a bright green whisper to this colorful dish.

Peppers crunch alongside perfectly cooked pasta, delivering a playful twist on classic street food.

Crisp and cool, this salad promises a delightful escape from ordinary side dishes.

Each forkful delivers a burst of southwestern charm that feels both familiar and exciting.

Ingredients for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Pasta Base:
  • Pasta: A classic pasta type that serves as the hearty foundation of this Mexican-inspired salad.
  • Corn: Grilled corn kernels that add a smoky sweetness and authentic Mexican street food flavor.
Creamy Dressing:
  • Mayonnaise, Sour Cream: Creamy ingredients that create a rich and tangy base for the dressing.
  • Lime Juice: Fresh citrus that brightens the overall flavor and adds a zesty punch.
  • Chili Powder: Adds a warm, spicy kick typical of Mexican street corn flavor.
Garnish and Seasoning:
  • Cotija Cheese: A traditional Mexican cheese that provides a salty, crumbly texture.
  • Cilantro: Fresh herb that brings a bright, herbal note to the pasta salad.
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance and balance the overall taste of the dish.

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Step 1: Boil Pasta to Perfection

Cook your favorite pasta in salted water until it reaches al dente texture. Drain and let it cool down to room temperature while preparing other ingredients.

Step 2: Char Corn for Smoky Flavor

Grill or roast corn kernels until they develop beautiful golden-brown caramelized spots. This brings out a rich, smoky sweetness that defines authentic Mexican street corn style.

Step 3: Create Creamy Zesty Dressing

Whisk together:
  • Creamy mayonnaise
  • Tangy sour cream
  • Fresh lime juice
  • Spicy chili powder

Blend until the mixture becomes smooth and well-incorporated, creating a vibrant and punchy sauce.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Corn

Gently fold the cooled pasta and charred corn kernels in a large mixing bowl. Ensure even distribution of ingredients for balanced flavor in every bite.

Step 5: Mix in Signature Toppings

Sprinkle and fold in:
  • Crumbly cotija cheese
  • Chopped fresh cilantro

These traditional Mexican street corn garnishes will elevate the pasta salad’s authentic profile.

Step 6: Season and Chill

Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and intensify. Serve cold and enjoy the explosion of Mexican-inspired flavors.

Pro Tips for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

  • Char corn on the grill or stovetop for an authentic smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste of the pasta salad.
  • Substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier dressing that cuts down on calories.
  • Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
  • Add diced jalapeños for extra heat and kick if you prefer a spicier version of the dish.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, but add fresh cilantro just before serving to maintain its vibrant flavor and color.

Variations of Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

  • Southwestern Fiesta Pasta: Add black beans, diced bell peppers, and jalapeños for a spicier, more robust version with extra protein and crunch.
  • Greek-Inspired Corn Pasta: Replace cotija with feta cheese, swap cilantro for fresh oregano, and add kalamata olives for a Mediterranean transformation.
  • Creamy Avocado Corn Pasta: Blend ripe avocado into the dressing for a rich, silky texture and incorporate diced avocado chunks for extra creaminess.
  • Ranch-Style Corn Pasta: Use ranch seasoning instead of chili powder, mix in crispy bacon bits, and garnish with green onions for a classic American flavor profile.

Pairing Suggestions for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

  • Cool Beverage Match: Mexican Michelada – Spicy, zesty beer cocktail with lime and chili provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy pasta salad, cutting through its creaminess.
  • Fresh Side Suggestion: Avocado Salsa – Chunky, bright avocado salsa adds fresh texture and citrusy notes that amplify the corn and lime elements in the pasta dish.
  • Crisp Accompaniment: Pickled Red Onions – Tangy, sharp pickled onions introduce a vibrant acidity that balances the salad's creamy profile and adds a punchy flavor dimension.

Storage Advice for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator, ensuring the pasta is completely covered with dressing to prevent drying out.
  • Transfer to a freezer-safe container, seal tightly, and freeze for up to 1 month. Note that texture might slightly change due to mayonnaise and sour cream.
  • Move from freezer to refrigerator overnight, allowing gradual defrosting and preventing ingredient separation.
  • Stir well and add a splash of fresh lime juice or a bit more mayonnaise to revive the creamy texture and brighten flavors when reheating.

FAQs About Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

  • What is cotija cheese and can I substitute it?

Cotija is a crumbly, salty Mexican cheese. You can replace it with feta cheese or parmesan if unavailable, which will provide a similar tangy and salty flavor profile.

  • How spicy is this pasta salad?

The chili powder adds a mild warmth. If you prefer more heat, add extra chili powder or include diced jalapeños for a spicier kick.

  • Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it 1-2 days in advance, which actually helps the flavors develop and become more complex.

  • Is this recipe vegetarian?

The current recipe is vegetarian. Just ensure you use vegetarian-friendly mayonnaise and check the ingredients of your cheese to confirm it meets vegetarian standards.

  • Celebrate Summer Flavors: Burst with authentic Mexican street corn taste in a delightful pasta form, bringing vibrant, zesty ingredients together in one delicious dish.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Potluck Star: Perfect for barbecues, picnics, and gatherings where everyone craves a memorable side that stands out from typical pasta salads.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients or adjust spice levels to match personal preferences, making this recipe adaptable for different taste buds and dietary needs.
  • No-Fuss Preparation: Requires minimal cooking skills and simple steps, allowing both novice and experienced cooks to create a restaurant-quality meal without stress.
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Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

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4.7 from 37 reviews

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x
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Description

Creamy Mexican street corn pasta salad blends zesty flavors from south of the border into a delightful summer dish. Lime-kissed dressing and charred corn kernels create a mouthwatering experience that transports you straight to a lively street market.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 3 cups (710 ml) pasta (penne or rotini)
  • 1 1/2 cups (355 ml) grilled corn (fresh or frozen)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) crumbled cotija cheese

Sauce Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) lime juice

Seasoning Ingredients:

  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) chili powder
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) chopped cilantro
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and cool to room temperature.
  2. Grill corn kernels until lightly charred and caramelized, creating a smoky flavor profile.
  3. Whisk together creamy mayonnaise, tangy sour cream, zesty lime juice, and spicy chili powder in a mixing bowl until smooth and well-integrated.
  4. Combine cooled pasta and grilled corn kernels in a large serving bowl, ensuring even distribution.
  5. Pour prepared dressing over the pasta mixture, gently tossing to ensure every piece is thoroughly coated.
  6. Sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese and freshly chopped cilantro throughout the salad, folding delicately to maintain ingredient integrity.
  7. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting to personal taste preferences.
  8. Refrigerate the salad for 30-45 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and develop a harmonious taste profile.
  9. Before serving, give a quick stir and garnish with additional cilantro leaves for a vibrant presentation.

Notes

  • For an extra flavor boost, grill the corn directly on the flame or grill to get those delicious charred marks that enhance the authentic Mexican street corn taste.
  • Swap out regular pasta for gluten-free or whole wheat options to accommodate different dietary needs without compromising the zesty flavor profile.
  • Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for those who love an extra kick of heat in their pasta salad.
  • Make this dish ahead of time and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight to allow the flavors to intensify and develop a more complex taste.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 253 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 210 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 24 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 7 g
  • Cholesterol: 20 mg

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Sarah Mitchell

Sarah Mitchell

Content Specialist & Home Cooking Enthusiast

Expertise

  • Making healthy, comforting meals that fit into real-life schedules
  • Planning balanced, single-serving meals for individuals and small families
  • Writing clear, practical food content with a focus on wellness and ease
  • Using seasonal ingredients to bring variety and freshness to everyday meals

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College – Asheville, NC

  • Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Trained in the basics of professional cooking, with a strong focus on home-style meals, seasonal recipe development, and time-saving kitchen techniques for everyday use.

American Fitness Professionals & Associates – Online

  • Program: Nutrition and Wellness Consultant Certification
  • Focus: Studied how to make healthy eating simple, enjoyable, and accessible

Sarah’s passion for food was sparked by weekend trips to the farmers’ market and her belief that healthy meals should never feel boring.
After earning her culinary diploma and becoming a certified Nutrition and Wellness Consultant, she set out to help others fall in love with simple, wholesome cooking.
She’s all about celebrating the small wins in the kitchen: a colorful yogurt bowl, a new twist on a classic dish, or a homemade snack that feels just a little extra special.
Outside the kitchen, Sarah is a gardener at heart, a yoga enthusiast, and a believer that fresh herbs can brighten any meal, and any day.

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