Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

298 Reviews

Rated 4.9 out of 5

Enjoy the bold flavors of this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, a creamy, colorful side dish made with tender pasta, sweet corn, cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, and a zesty lime dressing. This easy summer recipe is perfect for BBQs, potlucks, picnics, meal prep, or a quick family dinner.

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving

Calories: 368 kcal
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 420mg

Descriptions

Looking for the best Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad recipe that’s creamy, flavorful, and easy to make? Inspired by the classic Mexican street food elote, this pasta salad combines perfectly cooked pasta, roasted sweet corn, creamy dressing, tangy cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, and a hint of chili powder for an irresistible side dish.

Whether you’re searching for summer pasta salad recipes, BBQ side dishes, Mexican pasta salad, corn salad recipes, picnic food ideas, or easy potluck recipes, this recipe is a delicious choice. It’s packed with fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for any gathering.

Top your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad with extra cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, chili powder, and a squeeze of fresh lime before serving.

Directions

Step 1

Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and let it cool completely.

Step 2

Cook the corn in a skillet or on the grill until lightly charred, then allow it to cool slightly.

Step 3

In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Step 4

Add the cooled pasta, charred corn, diced red onion, cilantro, and cotija cheese to the dressing.

Step 5

Gently toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy dressing.

Step 6

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, then garnish with extra cheese, cilantro, chili powder, and lime wedges before serving.

Note's

Fresh grilled corn provides the best smoky flavor, but frozen or canned corn also works.
Chill the salad before serving to enhance the flavor.
Add diced avocado just before serving for extra creaminess.
Swap cotija cheese with feta if needed.
Stir before serving if the dressing thickens after refrigeration.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Add grilled chicken or black beans to make it a complete meal.
Adjust the chili powder based on your preferred spice level.