Go Back
–+ servings
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad That'll Wow Your Summer Guests

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad bursts with vibrant flavors, perfect for summer gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni or penne substitute with gluten-free pasta if desired
For the Corn
  • 1 cup sweet corn kernels fresh, frozen, or canned
  • 1 tablespoon butter
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice freshly squeezed preferred
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
For the Fresh Ingredients
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro leaves
  • 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese substitute with feta if needed
  • 1 medium jalapeño pepper omit for milder salad
For Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni or penne and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
  2. Char the Corn: Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Add sweet corn and cook for 8-10 minutes until golden brown.
  3. Season the Corn: Remove from heat, stir in chili powder and smoked paprika. Let cool slightly.
  4. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooled pasta, seasoned corn, mayonnaise, lime juice, cotija cheese, cilantro, and jalapeño. Toss gently until well combined.
  5. Adjust the Flavor: Taste and adjust with more lime juice, salt, or pepper as needed.
  6. Chill Before Serving: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve cold, garnished with extra cotija cheese and cilantro if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 8gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For a fresher taste, use fresh corn and cilantro. Enhance flavors after chilling by adjusting lime juice and seasoning to preference.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!