This Easy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a colorful mix of pasta, sweet corn, and tasty spices. It’s like a little fiesta in a bowl, and who doesn’t love that?
The zesty dressing adds a fun kick, and the crunch from the corn makes it even better. I love to serve this salad during summer barbecues—it’s always a hit!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bowtie Pasta: I love using bowtie pasta for its fun shape, but any pasta you have—like penne or rotini—works too. Just keep an eye on cooking times since different shapes may cook differently.
Corn: Fresh corn is delicious if you can get it! Just be ready to husk and cook it. If not, frozen corn is a great alternative. It’s convenient and still tasty—just thaw it before using.
Cotija Cheese: Cotija adds a nice salty creaminess. If unavailable, feta is a fantastic substitute. It gives that tang without losing the character of the dish. You could even use shredded cheddar for a different twist!
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens up the flavors. If you’re in a pinch, bottled lime juice works too, but fresh is always better for taste!
Sour Cream: Can’t find sour cream? Try plain Greek yogurt! It’ll give you the same creamy texture with added protein. Or use Mexican crema if you want that authentic touch.
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Corn?
Cooking the corn to get a nice char is key! It adds depth to the salad. Start by heating a skillet over medium heat.
- Add a little oil or butter to the hot skillet.
- Add the corn, stirring occasionally for about 5-7 minutes.
- Look for some golden brown spots—that’s the flavor enhancer!
- Once done, set it aside to cool before you mix it in.
This technique really brings out the natural sweetness of the corn and adds a smoky side. Enjoy the process—it makes a difference!
Easy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (about 3 cups) bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 3 cups fresh corn kernels (about 4-5 ears) or frozen corn, thawed
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup sour cream (or Mexican crema if available)
- 1 cup crumbled Cotija cheese (or feta as substitute)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2-3 green onions, sliced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta salad takes about 30 minutes to prepare, with an extra 30 minutes chilling time in the fridge. It’s a quick and easy recipe that you can whip up for gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Corn:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add a little oil or butter. Toss in the corn kernels, and cook while stirring occasionally until they become slightly charred and fragrant. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat and let the corn cool for a few minutes.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika (if using), minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Now, it’s time to add your cooled pasta and charred corn to the dressing. Gently stir everything together until the pasta and corn mixture are well coated in the dressing.
5. Add Fresh Herbs and Cheese:
Mix in the chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, and crumbled Cotija cheese. Give it a taste, and feel free to adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lime juice based on your preference.
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, you can enjoy it cold or at room temperature. For an extra touch, garnish with additional cilantro or Cotija cheese on top!
Enjoy this creamy, tangy, and smoky pasta salad inspired by traditional Mexican street corn — it’s perfect for any gathering, picnic, or as a tasty side dish!
FAQ for Easy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is a great choice, you can substitute it with any pasta shape like penne, rotini, or even spaghetti. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose.
Can I Use Canned Corn Instead of Fresh or Frozen?
While fresh or frozen corn is ideal for the best flavor and texture, you can definitely use canned corn in a pinch! Just make sure to drain and rinse it well to remove excess sodium before adding it to the salad.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen with time, making it even tastier when you enjoy it again!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with plant-based alternatives. You can also use a vegan cheese, such as cashew cheese or a dairy-free feta. Just make sure to check the labels for any non-vegan ingredients!
