This Easy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a fun twist on a classic! With sweet corn, creamy dressing, and a hint of lime, it’s super tasty and so simple to make!
I love how this salad brings out those delicious summer flavors. Perfect for picnics or BBQs—plus, you won’t believe how quickly it comes together. Just boil the pasta, mix, and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This pasta shape is great for holding onto the dressing. If you don’t have rotini, any short pasta like fusilli or farfalle works just as well. Gluten-free pasta is also a great option if needed.
Corn Kernels: You can use fresh corn for a sweet crunch, but canned or frozen corn are excellent substitutes. If using frozen, just thaw them beforehand.
Cotija Cheese: This cheese adds a unique flavor. If you can’t find cotija, feta works well too. For a dairy-free option, try almond cream or a vegan cheese alternative.
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: Together, they create a creamy dressing. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt can replace the sour cream. For a dairy-free swap, use avocado or coconut yogurt.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro enhances flavor, but if you’re not a fan, parsley can be a good substitute. Basil is another tasty choice that can add a different twist!
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Salad is Flavorful?
To ensure your pasta salad has a burst of flavor, use these tips:
- Cook the pasta until it’s al dente, as it will hold up better when mixed with the dressing.
- Rinsing the pasta with cold water after cooking stops the cooking process and cools it down quickly. This prevents it from becoming mushy.
- Mix the dressing ingredients well before adding in the pasta. This ensures every noodle is coated with flavor.
- Chilling the salad lets the flavors meld together beautifully. If you can, let it chill longer than 30 minutes for more flavor!
- Always taste your salad after mixing. Adjust lime juice, salt, and pepper according to your preferences—you want it to pop!
Easy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or pasta of your choice)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta cheese)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus more for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta salad takes about 10 minutes to prep and an extra 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes before it’s ready to serve! Perfect for a quick and tasty dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of water, then add the rotini pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
2. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the corn kernels, crumbled cotija cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until you have a nice, creamy dressing that’s well mixed.
3. Combine Pasta and Dressing:
Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing. Mix well so that each piece of pasta is coated with the creamy goodness. Then, gently fold in the chopped cilantro, combining it with the pasta and dressing.
4. Taste and Chill:
Now, give your pasta salad a taste! Adjust the seasoning if necessary—add more lime juice, salt, or pepper to make it just right for you. Once you’re happy with the flavor, cover the bowl and chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps all the wonderful flavors blend together.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, dish out the chilled pasta salad into bowls or onto a serving platter. Garnish with additional chopped cilantro and a sprinkle of chili powder if you’d like. Enjoy your refreshing and flavorful Easy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini works well for this salad, you can use any pasta you like, such as penne, bowtie, or even macaroni. Just make sure to cook it according to package instructions and cool it down before mixing!
What Can I Substitute for Cotija Cheese?
If you can’t find cotija cheese, feta cheese is a great alternative for a similar flavor and texture. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based cheese that crumbles well.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors may deepen and become even more delicious! Just give it a good stir before serving again.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Salad?
Definitely! Adding diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or jalapeños can enhance the flavor and add some crunch. Just make sure to chop them small and mix them in with the other ingredients for an even distribution.
