This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a flavorful and refreshing twist on the classic Mexican street food, “Elote”. Combining grilled corn, tender pasta, creamy dressing, and the bold flavors of cotija cheese, cilantro, and lime, this salad is perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or as a side dish for any meal. It’s easy to make and absolutely bursting with flavor, with a hint of spice that can be adjusted to your preference.
The smoky, slightly charred corn combined with the tangy and creamy dressing brings out the best of both worlds, making this salad a crowd favorite. It pairs perfectly with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a light and satisfying lunch.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Recipe Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (fusilli, penne, or bowtie work well)
- 4 ears of corn, husked (or 3 cups frozen corn, thawed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta as a substitute)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Optional: 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
Step 2: Grill the Corn
- Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush the corn with olive oil and place on the grill.
- Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the corn is charred in spots. Remove from the grill and let it cool slightly.
- Once cool enough to handle, cut the kernels off the cob and set aside. If using frozen corn, heat it in a skillet with a little olive oil until lightly charred.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- Add the cooked pasta, grilled corn, cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, green onions, and jalapeño (if using) to the bowl with the dressing.
- Toss everything together until the pasta and corn are well coated in the dressing and all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 5: Serve
- Transfer the salad to a serving dish and garnish with extra cilantro, cotija cheese, and a sprinkle of chili powder if desired.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Cook Notes & Tips
- Charred Corn: For the best flavor, use fresh grilled corn. If fresh corn is not available, frozen corn works well, but make sure to char it slightly to bring out the smoky flavor.
- Pasta: Use any short pasta shape that can hold the creamy dressing well, like fusilli, rotini, or penne.
- Adjusting Spice Level: If you prefer less spice, reduce the amount of chili powder or omit the jalapeño.
Recipe Variations
- Avocado Addition: Add diced avocado for extra creaminess and a touch of freshness.
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a more substantial meal.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan alternatives and use a dairy-free cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can make the salad up to 1 day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, but hold off on adding the cilantro until just before serving to keep it fresh.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving as the dressing may settle.
Q: Can I use canned corn instead of fresh or frozen?
A: Yes, you can use canned corn in a pinch. Drain and pat it dry, then char it lightly in a skillet for the best flavor.
This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy dressing, smoky corn, and zesty lime, it’s sure to be a hit at your next barbecue, potluck, or family dinner. Easy to make and bursting with fresh flavors, this pasta salad will quickly become a favorite. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the taste of summer in every bite!
