Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
A vibrant and flavorful pasta salad combining the tastes of Mexican street corn, perfect for gatherings and easy weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 8 ounces pasta Choose any shape you love, such as rotini or penne.
- 2 cups corn Fresh, canned, or grilled—make sure it’s sweet and tender.
- 1 piece red bell pepper Adds sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 piece jalapeño pepper Remove seeds for less heat.
- 1/4 cup red onion Diced for a zesty crunch.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro For a burst of freshness.
Dressing and Toppings
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese If unavailable, feta works great too.
- 1/2 cup sour cream Or swap for Greek yogurt for a healthy alternative.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise For richness.
- Juice of 1 lime Brightens all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder Adds warmth and depth.
- to taste none salt and pepper Essential for balancing flavors.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- If using fresh corn, grill it until slightly charred for extra flavor. If using canned corn, simply drain and rinse it.
- While the pasta cooks, finely dice the red bell pepper, jalapeño, and red onion. Chop the cilantro and crumble the cotija cheese.
Mixing
- In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and well-blended.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, corn, diced vegetables, and cotija cheese. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently until everything is coated.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Serving
- Garnish with additional cilantro and cotija cheese. Serve immediately, or let it chill in the fridge for an hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
This salad can be customized with added protein or seasonal vegetables. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days. Enjoy cold or at room temperature, and consider marinating before serving for enhanced flavor.