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Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad: A Flavor-Packed Home Delight

A refreshing Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad that combines vibrant flavors and textures, perfect for gatherings and quick meals.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Base
  • 8 ounces Rotini Pasta Penne or shells can also be used.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup Sweet Corn Can use canned, frozen, or fresh.
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper Use jalapeños for extra heat if desired.
  • 1/2 medium Red Onion Omit or reduce for milder taste.
  • 1/4 cup Cilantro Parsley is a nice milder substitute.
For the Creamy Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt can be a lighter alternative.
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream Opt for low-fat if a lighter twist is preferred.
  • 2 tablespoons Lime Juice Use fresh lime for best results.
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Powder Adjust according to your spice preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used for more intense flavor.
For Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust to taste.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • medium bowl
  • large mixing bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water until cooled.
  2. While the pasta cools, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, lime zest, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with sweet corn, diced red bell pepper, chopped red onion, fresh cilantro, and crumbled cotija cheese. Stir gently to maintain texture.
  4. Drizzle the creamy dressing over the salad mixture and toss together until evenly coated. Avoid overmixing.
  5. Cover the bowl and let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 15-30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve garnished with extra crumbled cotija cheese and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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