Quick Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delicious, creamy, and slightly tangy twist on a classic pasta salad, featuring grilled corn, a creamy dressing, cilantro, and lime, inspired by Mexican street corn (Elote). It's a perfect dish for barbecues, potlucks, and summer gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (if grilling corn)
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling, Mixing
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
3 cups cooked pasta (such as rotini or elbow macaroni)
2 cups grilled or roasted corn kernels (about 3-4 ears of corn)
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta as a substitute)
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool it down. Set aside.
- Grill or roast the corn until lightly charred, then cut the kernels off the cob. You can also use canned or frozen corn, but grilling adds extra flavor.
- In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, grilled corn, red onion (if using), and cilantro. Pour the dressing over the top and mix until everything is well-coated.
- Sprinkle the crumbled cotija cheese over the pasta salad, and garnish with extra cilantro if desired.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- This salad can be made up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- For a vegan option, substitute the mayo and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives, and replace cotija with a vegan cheese or leave it out.
- If you prefer a spicier version, you can add finely diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the dressing.
- Grilled corn adds a smoky flavor to the dish, but frozen or canned corn can be used if needed.
- For a heartier salad, try adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
