Name: Easy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad You'll Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (any shape); 1 can corn (or 2 cups fresh corn); 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved); 1/2 cup red onion (finely chopped); 1 jalapeño (deseeded and diced); 1/2 cup cilantro (chopped); 1/2 cup cotija cheese (or feta cheese); 1/3 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 teaspoon chili powder; salt (to taste); pepper (to taste)

On a sweltering summer day, I found myself reminiscing about vibrant street food markets, where the scent of grilled corn dances in the air. That’s when the spark hit me—why not recreate that irresistible flavor explosion at home? Enter my Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad. This dish is a delightful fusion of cooling pasta and the smoky sweetness of corn, topped with creamy cotija cheese and a hint of lime. Perfect for those evenings when you crave something refreshing yet filling, this salad is your new go-to for backyard gatherings or quick weeknight dinners. The best part? It’s easy to whip up in just 30 minutes, and it tastes even better the next day! Are you ready to dive into a bowl of sunshine?

Why is this pasta salad a must-try?

Bursting with flavor: This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad combines the best of summer with sweet corn and zesty lime.

Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep, you'll have a delicious dish ready to impress in no time.

Versatile: Perfect as a side for BBQs or a light main, it fits any occasion effortlessly.

Nutrient-rich: Packed with fresh veggies and protein-rich cotija cheese, it’s a wholesome choice that won't weigh you down.

Crowd-pleaser: Everyone will be begging for seconds, making it a fantastic addition to any gathering!

Elevate your meal with this vibrant salad—your taste buds will thank you!

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to create this delicious, refreshing dish!

For the Pasta Salad

8 oz pasta – choose any shape you love, cooked until al dente for the perfect texture.
1 can corn (or 2 cups fresh corn) – fresh corn gives an amazing flavor; grill it for that smoky essence.
1 cup cherry tomatoes – halved for sweet bursts of freshness in every bite.
½ cup red onion – finely chopped to add a crunch and a hint of sharpness.
1 jalapeño – deseeded and diced, for a spicy kick if you're feeling adventurous!
½ cup cilantro – chopped to bring a lovely herbal note that complements the other flavors.
½ cup cotija cheese (or feta cheese) – adds a creamy texture to the salad.

For the Dressing

⅓ cup mayonnaise – provides a rich base for the dressing, keeping it creamy and delightful.
1 tablespoon lime juice – brightens up the salad and enhances the flavors of the Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad.
1 teaspoon chili powder – adds a warm spice that ties all the ingredients together.
Salt and pepper – to taste, ensuring all the flavors sing harmoniously!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add in 8 ounces of your preferred pasta and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions (usually around 8-10 minutes). Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set the pasta aside in a mixing bowl to cool while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 can of corn (or 2 cups of grilled fresh corn), 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, and ½ cup of finely chopped red onion. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add in 1 diced jalapeño, deseeded for less intensity. Toss in ½ cup of chopped cilantro and ½ cup of crumbled cotija cheese to provide a creamy and rich texture. Mix all the vegetables gently until well combined.

Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together ⅓ cup of mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of lime juice, and 1 teaspoon of chili powder. This dressing should be creamy yet tangy, perfectly balancing the flavors in your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring that it’s flavorful without overwhelming the other ingredients.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add the cooled pasta to the vegetable mixture. Use a spatula to mix them gently, ensuring that the pasta is evenly distributed among the veggies. This will help the pasta soak up all those vibrant flavors while keeping the salad looking colorful and inviting.

Step 5: Dress the Salad
Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta salad. Fold the mixture carefully to coat everything evenly without breaking apart the vegetables. Aim for a balanced dressing that clings to the pasta while allowing the fresh tastes of each ingredient to shine through in this delightful Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad.

Step 6: Chill and Serve
Cover the pasta salad with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving—this allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste. When ready to serve, give it a gentle toss to refresh the ingredients and enjoy this delicious salad as a refreshing summer dish!

How to Store and Freeze Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Fridge: Store the pasta salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days, and watch as the flavors deepen deliciously.

Freezer: For freezing, separate the dressing from the salad and freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Refreshing: When you're ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and mix the dressing back in just before serving.

Reheating: If serving warm, gently warm the salad in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to revive creaminess without losing freshness.

Expert Tips for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for shapes that hold dressing well, like fusilli or penne, ensuring delightful bites of the Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad.
Grill Fresh Corn: If using fresh corn, grilling adds a smoky depth. Avoid boiling, as that diminishes the corn's natural sweetness and flavor.
Chill to Enhance Flavor: Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes. The resting time allows flavors to meld beautifully, transforming your salad experience.
Adjust Spice Level: Want more heat? Keep some seeds in the jalapeño, or add a pinch of cayenne if you love a kick in your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad.
Fresh Herbs Matter: Substitute mint or parsley for cilantro if you're not a fan. Fresh herbs elevate the salad, adding vibrant taste and aroma while reducing any dullness.

What to Serve with Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

A vibrant and refreshing salad like this creates a colorful centerpiece for any meal, inviting you to explore exciting flavor combinations.

Grilled Chicken: Seasoned and juicy grilled chicken complements the creamy pasta while adding protein, making it a satisfying meal.
Zesty Coleslaw: The crunch of a tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the salad's creaminess with vibrant acidity.
Corn on the Cob: Serve along with grilled or boiled corn on the cob for a delightful nod to the street corn inspiration. Spread with chili-lime butter for extra flavor!
Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices enhance the dish’s richness while adding a luscious texture that harmonizes beautifully.
Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips provide a fun, salty crunch that pairs well with the smooth pasta salad. Perfect for scooping too!
Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad, bursting with melons and berries, offers a sweet contrast that uplifts the meal with seasonal vibrance.
Sparkling Water: A chilled glass of sparkling water with lime or lemon adds a refreshing sparkle that enhances the bright flavors of the dish.
Key Lime Pie: For dessert, a slice of zesty key lime pie introduces a tangy sweetness that leaves you satisfied but wanting more!

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Variations

Feel free to get creative and tailor this pasta salad to fit your taste buds and dietary preferences!

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta made from rice or chickpeas to maintain all the delicious flavors without gluten.
Vegan: Substitute cotija cheese with vegan cheese or avocado for creaminess, and use a plant-based mayo for the dressing. This variation keeps it fresh and satisfying while meeting vegan dietary needs.
Add Protein: Toss in some grilled chicken or black beans for an extra boost of protein; it turns the salad into a hearty meal. You'll feel fuller for longer, making it a perfect option for lunch or dinner.
Herb Infusion: Swap cilantro for fresh basil or dill for a different herbal dimension; each herb adds its unique flavor twist, creating a new experience each time!
Extra Veggies: Boost the nutrition by adding diced bell peppers, zucchini, or corn salsa, helping the salad feel even more vibrant and colorful on the plate.
Spice It Up: For those who crave more heat, add diced serrano peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing to ignite the flavor even further. Adjust to your taste to find your new spicy sweet spot!
Cheese Alternatives: Try swapping cotija with sharp cheddar or cream cheese for different flavor profiles; this can add an unexpected yet delightful twist that melts in your mouth.
Fruit Addition: Toss in diced avocados or mango for a creamy and sweet contrast to the savory elements, inviting refreshing bites that dance on your palate.

Let your imagination run wild with these variations and make this dish uniquely yours!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad in advance is a game-changer for busy cooks! You can chop the vegetables, mix the dressing, and even cook the pasta up to 24 hours ahead. Simply store the vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and vibrant. To maintain the texture of the pasta, toss it with a drizzle of olive oil before refrigerating. When you're ready to serve, mix everything together in a large bowl and pour over the dressing. After letting it chill for at least 30 minutes to meld the flavors, you'll enjoy a delicious salad that tastes just as fresh as if it were made that day!

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe FAQs

What type of corn is best for this salad?
Absolutely! You can use either canned corn or fresh corn for this recipe. However, grilling fresh corn enhances the flavor with a delightful smoky sweetness. If using fresh corn, grill it for about 5-7 minutes until charred, then cut the kernels off the cob for the freshest taste in your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad.

How long can I store leftovers?
Very! This pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen, making it even tastier. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to mix everything back together!

Can I freeze the Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?
Yes, you can freeze it! However, it's best to store the dressing separately from the salad. Freeze the salad without dressing in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, and add the dressing just before serving to maintain the fresh flavors and creamy texture.

What should I do if my salad is too dry?
If you find your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a bit dry after refrigeration, don't worry! Simply add a splash of lime juice or a drizzle of olive oil to freshen it up and bring back some moisture. Stir it gently until the dressing gets redistributed.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it ahead of time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Prepare your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. You can even make it the day before—just remember to give it a good toss before serving to revitalize any settled ingredients!