This Easy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad brings all the yummy flavors of street corn into a fun, pasta dish. It’s packed with corn, spices, creamy dressing, and fresh herbs!
You can whip it up in no time and serve it at BBQs or just for a cozy dinner at home. I love how colorful it is! Plus, it tastes so good, you might want to eat the whole bowl! 🌽❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This twisty pasta holds sauce and ingredients well. You could substitute it with any pasta shape you like, such as penne or fusilli. Gluten-free pasta works perfectly too if you need that option.
Corn Kernels: Fresh corn gives the best flavor, but frozen corn is a convenient option that works great. If you’re short on time, canned corn can be used as a last resort; just rinse it well to reduce sodium.
Cotija Cheese: This cheese is crumbly and salty, perfect for the salad. If unavailable, feta cheese is a good substitute. You could also try ricotta for a softer texture, though it won’t be as salty.
Mayonnaise: The mayo adds creaminess. You can use Greek yogurt for a healthier twist or vegan mayo for a dairy-free version. Sour cream can also be swapped with plain yogurt if needed.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is a must for that authentic flavor. If you’re not a fan, parsley works well too, although it tastes a bit different. You can also skip it altogether.
How Do I Get the Corn Perfectly Charred?
Charred corn adds a delicious depth of flavor to your salad. Here’s how to achieve that perfect char:
- Preheat a skillet on medium-high heat – this helps to sear the corn quickly.
- Add the corn in a single layer, spreading it out as much as possible for even cooking.
- Sauté the corn for about 5-7 minutes until some kernels turn golden brown and fragrant. Stir occasionally but allow it to sit for a bit to get that nice char.
- Remove promptly once done to keep it crisp and flavorful!
This technique brings out the sweetness of the corn and makes your pasta salad unforgettable!
Easy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Salad:
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 3 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp chili powder, plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 20 minutes of prep time and can be enjoyed right away. If you choose to chill it in the refrigerator for a while, add an extra 30 minutes to let the flavors come together. Altogether, it’s a quick dish that packs a punch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions. Once it’s al dente (cooked but still firm), drain it and rinse under cold water to cool it down. Set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Corn:
In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the corn kernels. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is slightly charred and aromatic. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat and set the corn aside to cool.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper until you have a smooth dressing.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Add the cooled pasta, charred corn, chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, and half of the crumbled cotija cheese to the dressing in the bowl. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the creamy dressing.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste your salad. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lime juice to suit your preference.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer the pasta salad to a serving bowl. Top it with the remaining cotija cheese, a sprinkle of chili powder, and a bit more cilantro for garnish. You can serve it immediately or chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Enjoy your delicious creation!
This creamy salad is not only easy to make but also brings together the vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn in a delightful way. Perfect for gatherings, barbecues, or a fun weeknight meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Canned Corn Instead of Fresh or Frozen?
Yes, you can use canned corn in a pinch! Just be sure to drain and rinse it well to remove excess sodium before adding it to the salad. While fresh or frozen corn may give a slightly better flavor and texture, canned corn will work just fine!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, but the pasta may absorb some of the dressing. Simply stir in a little extra mayo or sour cream when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This pasta salad can be made a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it even tastier when you serve it!
What Other Ingredients Can I Add?
You can customize your salad with additional ingredients like diced bell peppers, jalapeños for some heat, or even avocado for extra creaminess. Feel free to get creative based on your taste preferences!
Feel free to reach out if you have any more questions or need further assistance with the recipe! Enjoy your cooking!
