Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad: A Flavorful Must-Try!

Name: Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad: A Flavorful Must-Try!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (elbow or rotini); 2 cups corn (fresh or canned); 1/2 cup red onion, diced; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped; 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 2 tbsp lime juice; 1 tsp chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Posted on July 19, 2025

SALADS & SIDES

Introduction to Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up something delicious and satisfying. That’s why I absolutely adore this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad! It’s vibrant, flavorful, and comes together in just 25 minutes. Perfect for those hectic weeknights or when you want to impress friends at a gathering. The combination of fresh ingredients and zesty dressing makes this dish a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to bring a taste of summer to your table, no matter the season. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a lifesaver for busy days. It’s quick to prepare, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish. The flavors are bold and refreshing, making it a delightful dish for any occasion. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as a main course or a side. You’ll love how it brightens up your table and satisfies even the pickiest eaters!

Ingredients for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad a hit. Here’s what you’ll need:

Pasta: I love using elbow or rotini pasta for this salad. They hold the dressing beautifully and add a fun texture.
Corn: Fresh corn is ideal, but canned corn works just as well. It adds a sweet crunch that’s essential to the dish.
Red Onion: Diced red onion brings a mild, sweet flavor and a pop of color. It’s a great way to add some zing!

Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes add juiciness and a burst of freshness. They’re like little flavor bombs in every bite.
Cilantro: Chopped cilantro gives a fresh, herbaceous note that complements the other ingredients perfectly. If you’re not a fan, parsley is a good substitute.
Cotija Cheese: This crumbly cheese adds a salty, creamy element. If you can’t find cotija, feta cheese is a tasty alternative.

Mayonnaise: It creates a creamy dressing that binds everything together. You can use Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the flavors and adds a zesty kick. It’s a must for that authentic Mexican taste!
Chili Powder: A sprinkle of chili powder gives the salad a warm, smoky flavor. Adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.

Salt and Pepper: These basic seasonings enhance all the flavors. Don’t skip them!

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing. Happy cooking!

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Making this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dish ready in no time. Let’s dive in!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add your pasta. I usually go for elbow or rotini, but feel free to use your favorite shape. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and let it cool. You want it to be at room temperature before mixing it with the other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the pasta cools, it’s time to chop! Dice the red onion, halve the cherry tomatoes, and chop the cilantro. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick. The colors of these fresh veggies will make your salad pop! Set them aside in a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This creamy dressing is what ties everything together. If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt works wonders too! Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed. A little extra lime juice can brighten it up even more.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Now, it’s time for the fun part! Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the dressing over the top and sprinkle in the crumbled cotija cheese. Gently toss everything together until well combined. You want every piece of pasta and veggie to be coated in that delicious dressing!

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, give it a quick stir and enjoy! This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or just a cozy dinner at home.

Tips for Success

Make sure to salt your pasta water; it enhances the flavor of the pasta.
Let the pasta cool completely before mixing to prevent wilting the veggies.
For extra flavor, grill the corn before adding it to the salad.

Adjust the chili powder to your spice preference; start with less if you’re unsure.
Chill the salad longer for even better flavor; overnight is ideal!

Equipment Needed

Large Pot: For boiling pasta. A deep skillet can work in a pinch.

Colander: To drain the pasta. A slotted spoon can also do the job.
Mixing Bowls: Use two bowls—one for veggies and one for dressing. Any large bowl will suffice.
Whisk: For mixing the dressing. A fork can work if you’re in a hurry!

Spatula or Tongs: For tossing the salad together. A large spoon is a great alternative.

Variations of Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick. This will elevate the flavor and heat!
Protein Boost: Toss in some grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans for added protein. It makes the salad more filling and satisfying.

Vegan Option: Substitute mayonnaise with avocado or a vegan mayo. Use nutritional yeast instead of cotija cheese for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Grilled Corn: For a smoky flavor, grill the corn before adding it to the salad. It adds a delightful char that enhances the overall taste.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like basil or mint instead of cilantro. Each herb brings a unique twist to the salad.

Serving Suggestions for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Pair it with grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.
Serve alongside tortilla chips and salsa for a fun appetizer spread.
Complement with a refreshing margarita or iced tea.

Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges for a vibrant presentation.
Enjoy it at picnics or potlucks for a crowd-pleasing dish!

FAQs about Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Can I make this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it in the fridge, and it’ll be ready to serve when you are.

What can I substitute for cotija cheese?

If you can’t find cotija cheese, feta is a fantastic alternative. It offers a similar salty and creamy texture that works well in this salad.

Is this pasta salad gluten-free?

To make this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you’re good to go!

How can I make this salad spicier?

If you love heat, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing. You can also increase the chili powder for an extra kick!

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh or canned?

Yes, frozen corn works perfectly! Just thaw it before adding it to the salad. It’s a convenient option that still delivers great flavor.

Final Thoughts

Creating this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is more than just making a dish; it’s about bringing joy to your table. The vibrant colors and bold flavors remind me of sunny days and laughter shared with loved ones. It’s a recipe that fits seamlessly into busy lives, offering a quick yet satisfying meal. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this salad is sure to impress. I hope it becomes a staple in your kitchen, just as it has in mine. Happy cooking, and may every bite bring a smile to your face!