Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

If you’ve ever craved the smoky, spicy, and creamy flavors of classic Mexican street corn, imagine that bold taste in a hearty pasta salad! This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is everything you love about elote, but with a satisfying, pasta-filled twist. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a family gathering, or just looking for a vibrant side dish, this salad will undoubtedly steal the show. The combination of grilled corn, creamy dressing, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Flavor Explosion: A perfect balance of sweet, smoky, creamy, and spicy flavors in every bite.
• Crowd Pleaser: Ideal for parties, barbecues, or as a colorful side dish that everyone will love.
• Creamy and Tangy: The combination of cotija cheese, lime juice, and mayonnaise creates a velvety dressing that coats every pasta piece.
• Versatile and Customizable: Easily adaptable to your taste by adjusting the spice level or adding extra ingredients.

This salad is not just about taste—it’s about creating memories. Imagine serving it at your next cookout, where its bright colors and bold flavors make it the centerpiece of the meal. Plus, the simplicity of the ingredients makes it an effortless dish to prepare.

Ingredients for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Ingredient	Description
Elbow Pasta	Holds the creamy dressing well
Grilled Corn	Adds a smoky, sweet flavor
Cotija Cheese	Crumbled for a salty, tangy touch
Red Onion	Adds a sharp, crisp contrast
Jalapeño	Brings a hint of heat
Mayonnaise	Base for the creamy dressing
Sour Cream	Balances richness with a slight tang
Lime Juice	Adds freshness and acidity
Chili Powder	Gives a smoky, mildly spicy kick
Fresh Cilantro	Adds a burst of color and herbaceous flavor

Ingredient Notes

• Use fresh corn for the best flavor. Grilling enhances the natural sweetness and adds a smoky note.
• Cotija cheese is preferred, but feta can be substituted for a similar salty, tangy flavor.
• Adjust the amount of chili powder and jalapeño to suit your spice preference.

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad – Step-by-Step Guide

Cook the Pasta

• Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

Prepare the Corn

• Grill or char the corn on a stovetop until kernels are slightly blackened. Let cool, then cut kernels off the cob.

Make the Dressing

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

• Add cooled pasta, grilled corn, cotija cheese, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro to the bowl. Toss well to coat.

Chill and Serve

• Refrigerate the salad for at least 10 minutes to let flavors meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Tips for the Best Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Use freshly grilled corn for the most authentic flavor.

• Adjust the spice level according to your preference. A touch more lime juice can balance the heat.
• Make ahead of time. The salad tastes even better as the flavors blend in the fridge.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Chipotle Version: Add chipotle powder or smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor.
• Creamier Salad: Mix in a few tablespoons of cream cheese for added richness.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace mayonnaise with a vegan alternative and use plant-based sour cream.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	280
Carbohydrates	32g
Protein	8g
Fat	14g
Fiber	3g
Sugar	4g

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is more than just a side dish—it’s a flavor-packed experience. Combining the zesty, creamy, and slightly spicy elements of Mexican street corn with the hearty texture of pasta, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. Perfect for summer cookouts, picnics, or casual family dinners, it brings vibrant colors and bold tastes to your table. Try it once, and you’ll keep coming back to this easy, delicious recipe.

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