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Easy • Sides

Hearty Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This vibrant pasta salad brings the smoky, zesty flavors of Mexican street corn to your table in a satisfying, crowd-pleasing dish.

Prep
15 min
Cook
15 min
Servings
6
Level
Easy
Hearty Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Imagine the irresistible flavors of elote, or Mexican street corn, transformed into a hearty and vibrant pasta salad! This dish is smoky, creamy, zesty, and utterly delicious. It's perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or as a fun, flavorful side dish for any weeknight meal. Get ready for a flavor fiesta!

Ingredients

Yield: 6 servings

Pasta Salad

  • 12 oz small pasta (such as rotini, shells, or elbow macaroni)
  • 2 cups cooked corn (fresh, frozen, or canned, drained)
  • 1/2 red onion, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for heat)
  • 1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta/Parmesan)

Creamy Dressing

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
  • 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

For Serving

  • Extra lime wedges
  • Extra cilantro
  • Hot sauce (optional)

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking and cool it down. Set aside.

  2. Step 2

    If using fresh or frozen corn, you can quickly sauté it in a dry skillet over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it gets a slight char. Let cool.

  3. Step 3

    In a large bowl, whisk together all the dressing ingredients: mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper.

  4. Step 4

    Add the cooled pasta, corn, diced red onion, chopped cilantro, and minced jalapeño (if using) to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently until everything is well coated.

  5. Step 5

    Stir in the crumbled cotija cheese. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more lime juice, salt, or chili powder if desired.

  6. Step 6

    Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for the flavors to meld. Serve with extra lime wedges and cilantro for garnish.

Tips

  • For a beautiful presentation, reserve a small amount of corn, cilantro, and cotija to sprinkle on top just before serving.
  • Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete main meal.
  • If making ahead, you might want to add a splash more lime juice and a stir before serving as the pasta can absorb some dressing.

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