QUICK & EASY Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a fun twist on traditional Mexican street corn (Elote). It’s easy to make, bursting with bold flavors, and perfect for any occasion. The combination of sweet corn, pasta, creamy dressing, and a kick of spice will have everyone reaching for seconds. Plus, it’s a make-ahead dish, so it’s ideal for busy days when you need something to prep in advance.

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (rotini or elbow work great)

• 2 cups grilled corn kernels (about 3 ears of corn)

• 1 cup mayonnaise

• ½ cup sour cream

• 2 tablespoon fresh lime juice

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped

• Salt and pepper to taste

• ¼ cup crumbled Cotija cheese (or feta as an alternative)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool it down quickly.

2. Grill the corn on a grill or stovetop grill pan until slightly charred, about 8–10 minutes. Once cool, slice the kernels off the cob.

3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, grilled corn, mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cilantro.

4. Stir until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

5. Fold in the crumbled Cotija cheese.

6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6–8

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 10 minutes

• Total time: 25–30 minutes (plus 30 minutes chilling time)

Variations

• Add protein: You can add grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a more filling meal.

• Use different cheeses: If you can't find Cotija, try using crumbled feta or even grated Parmesan for a different flavor profile.

• Make it spicy: For extra heat, add chopped jalapeños or drizzle with hot sauce.

• Switch up the herbs: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try using parsley or even basil for a unique twist.

Storage/Reheating

This pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors improve as it sits, making it even better the next day. However, since it contains dairy, it’s not recommended to freeze it.

To enjoy the salad again, simply pull it from the fridge and give it a good stir before serving. If it’s too thick, add a splash of lime juice or a little more sour cream to loosen it up.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can replace the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt and omit the Cotija cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free cheese.

Can I use canned corn instead of grilled corn?

While fresh or grilled corn is ideal for flavor and texture, canned corn can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to drain and rinse it thoroughly before adding it to the salad.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad is perfect for making ahead. Just cover it and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight, to let the flavors meld.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any type of short pasta will work. Rotini, elbow macaroni, or penne are all great choices.

How do I grill the corn for this recipe?

You can grill the corn on a BBQ grill or stovetop grill pan. Simply brush the corn with a little oil and grill over medium heat for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally until it’s slightly charred.

What can I substitute for lime juice?

If you don’t have lime, you can use lemon juice for a similar tangy flavor.

Can I make this a main dish?

Yes! By adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even black beans, you can easily turn this pasta salad into a hearty main course.

How do I make this recipe spicier?

Add diced jalapeños, a few dashes of hot sauce, or increase the amount of chili powder to suit your heat preference.

Can I use frozen corn?

Yes, frozen corn can be used if you don’t have fresh corn. Be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before using it in the salad.

How long can I store this salad?

It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. After that, the pasta may begin to get soggy.

Conclusion

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a flavorful and refreshing dish that’s perfect for any gathering. With its smoky, creamy, and tangy notes, it’s sure to be a hit. The best part? It’s simple to make, and you can easily customize it to suit your tastes. Whether you’re serving it at a picnic, barbecue, or family dinner, this dish will quickly become a favorite.