When it comes to cookouts, potlucks, or weekday dinners, Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad delivers the perfect combination of smoky, creamy, tangy, and spicy flavors. Drawing inspiration from the beloved elote, this salad takes all the best parts of street corn grilled corn, chili powder, cotija cheese, and creamy dressing and marries them with tender pasta for a dish that’s bold and irresistible.

Ingredients: What You’ll Need for Authentic Flavor

For the Salad Base:

3 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or rotini work well)
2 cups grilled corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
½ cup crumbled Cotija cheese (or feta as an alternative)
½ cup chopped red onion
½ cup diced red bell pepper
1 jalapeño, seeded and finely diced
½ cup chopped fresh cilantro

For the Creamy Dressing:

½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sour cream
Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions: How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil pasta in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.

Step 2: Grill or Roast the Corn

If using fresh corn, grill the ears over medium heat until slightly charred, then cut off the kernels. For canned or frozen corn, sauté in a hot skillet until golden brown and caramelized.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, olive oil, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well-blended.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, grilled corn, red onion, bell pepper, jalapeño, and cilantro. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss thoroughly to coat every ingredient.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Fold in the crumbled Cotija cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning with more lime juice, salt, or chili powder as needed.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature with additional cheese and cilantro on top.

Pro Tips for Perfect Pasta Salad Every Time

Use Fresh Ingredients

Fresh grilled corn adds the most depth. However, high-quality canned or frozen corn works well in a pinch.

Balance the Heat

Jalapeños bring the heat. For a milder version, remove all seeds or substitute with green bell peppers. To spice it up, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne.

Make It Ahead

This pasta salad tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge. It’s ideal for meal prepping or hosting.

Add Protein for a Meal

To turn this side dish into a full meal, toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans for added protein.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs beautifully with:

Grilled meats like carne asada or BBQ chicken
Tacos and burritos for a Mexican-inspired spread
Burgers and sliders at cookouts or tailgates
Fresh guacamole and tortilla chips for a festive appetizer combo

Storage Notes

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving as the dressing may settle.

Avoid freezing this salad as the creamy dressing tends to separate and change texture when thawed.

Conclusion

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is more than just a side dish it’s a celebration of color, texture, and bold taste. Whether you’re looking for a unique potluck contribution or a satisfying weeknight side, this recipe hits all the right notes. With its creamy chili-lime dressing and roasted corn goodness, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

FAQs

Can I make this salad dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free mayo and sour cream, and skip or replace Cotija cheese with a plant-based alternative.

What’s the best pasta for this salad?

Short-cut pasta like rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni work best. They hold the creamy dressing well and mix evenly with the corn and veggies.

How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?

Cook it just to al dente and rinse with cold water immediately after draining. This stops the cooking and keeps the texture firm.

Can I make it ahead for a party?

Absolutely! This salad is a great make-ahead dish. Just keep it refrigerated and stir before serving. For best flavor, prepare it a day in advance.

What is Cotija cheese and can I substitute it?

Cotija is a salty, crumbly Mexican cheese. If you can’t find it, feta cheese is a suitable substitute for its texture and fl

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad