Description
Discover the vibrant and flavorful Tasty Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, a perfect summer dish combining smoky grilled corn, creamy cheese, and zesty seasonings. This easy-to-make Mexican pasta salad is a delightful twist on classic street food, ideal for barbecues, potlucks, or quick weeknight dinners. Packed with bold flavors and colorful presentation, it’s sure to impress family and friends.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or penne pasta
- 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup crumbled cotija or feta cheese
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: diced jalapeños for extra spice
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
- For authentic flavor, grill the corn until slightly charred, then cut the kernels off the cob. Alternatively, sauté or boil the corn if grilling isn’t possible.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Add the cooled pasta, grilled corn, crumbled cheese, and chopped cilantro to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently to combine evenly. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Refrigerate the Mexican pasta salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld. Serve chilled garnished with optional jalapeños or extra cheese.
Notes
- Use fresh lime juice for a zestier flavor.
- Swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier version.
- Top with additional crumbled cheese or sliced jalapeños for extra heat.
- Add diced avocados for creaminess and richness.
- Prepare ingredients in advance to save time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing, Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 330 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 370 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg