Craving the bold, tangy flavors of Mexican street corn but want something more filling and picnic-friendly? Look no further than this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad! It takes all the deliciousness of elote—grilled corn smothered in creamy mayo, lime juice, and chili powder—and folds it into a cool, satisfying pasta salad that’s perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or a refreshing weeknight side.
With bursts of sweetness from corn, creaminess from cotija and mayo, and a bright citrus zing, this pasta salad hits all the right notes. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead, endlessly customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
- 3 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni, rotini, or shells work best)
- 2 cups corn (fresh grilled, canned, or frozen and thawed)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (fresh)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta if unavailable)
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- ¼ cup finely chopped red onion (optional)
- 1 jalapeño, finely diced (optional, for a kick)
- Lime wedges and extra chili powder, for garnish
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Cook the pasta:
Boil pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
2. Prepare the dressing:
In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the good stuff:
To the dressing, add the cooked pasta, corn, red onion, jalapeño (if using), and most of the cilantro and cotija cheese. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
4. Chill & serve:
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, sprinkle with remaining cheese, cilantro, a dusting of chili powder, and lime wedges on the side.
🍽️ Nutrition Info (Per serving – approx.)
- Calories: ~330
- Protein: 9g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
💡 Tips & Tricks
- Grill your corn: If time allows, grill fresh corn on the cob for an authentic smoky flavor.
- Make it a main: Add diced grilled chicken or black beans to turn it into a complete meal.
- Heat lovers: Mix in hot sauce or more jalapeños for extra spice.
- Meal prep friendly: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Flavors deepen over time!
- Dairy-free option: Use vegan mayo and omit the cheese, or sub with a dairy-free alternative.
✨ My Extra Touch for Your Website
This vibrant dish is ideal for your “Summer Sides,” “Potluck Favorites,” or “BBQ Recipes” section. Here are a few content-boosting ideas:
- Offer a “Build Your Summer Pasta Salad Bar” guide with mix-in suggestions
- Add a short video reel of grilled corn sizzling, pasta swirling in sauce, and that final chili-lime sprinkle
- Pair with a refreshing drink post, like Agua Fresca Recipes
- Create a printable Pasta Salad Cheat Sheet with dressing swaps and topping ideas
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