Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Name: Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 8 ounces fusilli pasta; 4 ears fresh corn, husked; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

Author: Lora

Published: May 29, 2025

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Introduction to Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

As a passionate home cook, I know how challenging it can be to whip up a satisfying meal after a long day. That’s where my Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad comes in! This delightful dish is a burst of summer flavors, perfect for casual barbecues or family gatherings. It brings the familiar joy of street corn with a refreshing twist. In just about 35 minutes, you can impress your loved ones with this vibrant, easy-to-make salad. Trust me, this recipe is a quick solution that turns your mealtime into a joyful event!

Why You’ll Love This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is easy to make and packs a punch of flavor! It’s the perfect dish for busy moms like us who want something quick yet satisfying. With simple ingredients that dance together, it’s a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults. Plus, it’s so versatile—you can serve it as a side or a light main dish. It truly brightens up any table!

Ingredients for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Gathering the right ingredients can make all the difference in your cooking experience! Here’s what you’ll need for this vibrant Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad:

Fusilli pasta: This curly pasta holds onto the dressing beautifully, adding great texture.
Fresh corn: Use sweet, tender corn for the best flavor; grilled corn brings a smoky essence that’s irresistible.
Mayonnaise: It provides creaminess. If you prefer a lighter option, swap it for Greek yogurt.
Lime juice: Freshly squeezed is best to brighten the dish and offer a zesty kick.
Chili powder: This adds warmth and depth—adjust the amount for your spice level!
Smoked paprika: It imparts a subtle smokiness. Feel free to use regular paprika if you prefer.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors.
Cotija cheese: This crumbly cheese gives that authentic street corn taste—substitutes like feta work too!
Fresh cilantro: Adds a pop of color and freshness. If you’re not a fan, you can skip it.

For exact quantities, check the bottom of this article where you can find the full recipe available for printing!

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Now, let’s get our hands into making this delightful Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad! Each step is simple and quick, allowing you to enjoy the cooking process, even on a busy day. Here’s how you can whip it up in no time.

Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in 8 ounces of fusilli pasta and cook according to the package instructions. Usually, it’s around 8-10 minutes. You want it al dente, so keep an eye on it! Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside to cool.

Grill the Corn

Time to fire up the grill! Preheat it to medium-high heat and throw on 4 husked ears of fresh corn. Grill them for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they have those lovely char marks. Let them cool a bit, then carefully slice the kernels off the cob, adding them to a large mixing bowl. The smoky flavor really elevates your pasta salad!

Prepare the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lime juice, 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder, and a 1/4 teaspoon each of smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This creamy dressing ties all the flavors together, bringing a delightful zesty touch to your dish!

Combine Ingredients

Now, let’s bring everything together! Pour the dressing over the corn kernels and mix well. Next, add the cooled fusilli pasta, tossing everything to ensure it’s evenly coated. Sprinkle in 1/4 cup of crumbled cotija cheese and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh cilantro. Gently fold these in, preserving that lovely texture!

Chill Before Serving

For the flavors to meld perfectly, let your salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is key to elevating your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, allowing that refreshing taste to shine through. Before serving, give it a good stir and sprinkle some extra cotija and cilantro on top if you like!

Tips for Success

Use a timer when cooking pasta to avoid overcooking; al dente is best!
Make your salad a day ahead for richer flavors—just give it a good stir before serving.
For an added crunch, toss in some diced bell peppers or red onions.
Adjust spices according to your family’s taste; you can always add more!
Don’t skip the chilling step—it’s vital for flavor integration.

Equipment Needed

Large pot: For boiling pasta; you can use a Dutch oven if available.
Grill or grill pan: Essential for charring the corn; a broiler can work in a pinch.
Mixing bowls: One large to combine ingredients, and a smaller one for the dressing.
Knife and cutting board: For slicing corn and chopping cilantro.
Whisk: Great for mixing the dressing smoothly; a fork works in a pinch!

Variations

For a touch of heat, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the dressing.
Try adding black beans or chickpeas for a protein boost, making it a heartier meal.
If you’re gluten-free, substitute fusilli pasta with gluten-free pasta made from brown rice or lentils.
For a dairy-free version, skip the cotija cheese or use a dairy-free alternative like cashew cheese.
Experiment with different herbs, such as parsley or green onions, to switch up the flavor profile!

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad with grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.
Serve it alongside fresh guacamole and tortilla chips for a delightful appetizer spread.
A chilled margarita or iced tea complements the flavors perfectly.
Consider a colorful platter presentation to enhance visual appeal at gatherings!

FAQs about Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is perfect for making a day in advance. Just ensure to give it a good stir before serving, as the flavors deepen wonderfully overnight!

What can I use if I can’t find cotija cheese?

If cotija cheese isn’t available, feta cheese can be a great substitute. It offers a similar crumbly texture and a tangy flavor that works beautifully in this salad!

Can I add more veggies to this pasta salad?

Of course! Feel free to toss in diced bell peppers, red onions, or even cherry tomatoes for added color and crunch. This salad is all about customization!

How long will the pasta salad last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Just make sure to keep it chilled!

Is this pasta salad suitable for a gluten-free diet?

For a gluten-free version, simply substitute the fusilli pasta with gluten-free pasta made from rice or lentils. It keeps the dish delicious while catering to your dietary needs!

Final Thoughts

Creating this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is more than just cooking; it’s an act of love, a moment to gather friends and family around the table. The vibrant colors and rich flavors not only please the palate but also lift your spirits. I hope this recipe becomes a staple in your home, bringing joy to busy days and laughter-filled gatherings. Whether you’re serving it warm in the sun or chilling in the fridge, it’s a dish that celebrates the joy of cooking and the heartwarming connections we cherish. Enjoy every flavorful bite!