Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

5 from 6 votes

Creamy, tangy and so delicious, this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad takes your favorite summertime side and switches it up with Mexican-inspired flavors reminiscent of Elote (Mexican street corn flavored with crema, cheese, a little heat, and lime). This pasta salad is a crowd-pleaser that is customizable, hearty, and unique. Watch it fly off the table whenever you serve it!

Prep Time10

Cook Time20

Total Time30

Course: Pasta Salad

Keyword: Mexican Street Corn, Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Servings:

Author: Lexi

Ingredients

12- ounces bow-tie pasta or pasta of choice
6 corn ears grilled or boiled (see note)
1/2 cup chopped cilantro
1/3 cup chopped green onion more as desired
Salt and pepper as desired

Dressing:

1/3 cup mayo
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper more as desired
1 garlic clove grated
1 lime juiced
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt and black pepper more to taste

Optional add-ins:

Cotija cheese or feta cheese
Black beans
Avocado
Jalapeno
See more above

Instructions

Make the pasta: Follow the directions on the package, making sure to salt your water generously. Drain pasta, rinse, and set aside to dry.
Make the corn: Grill, boil, or use frozen corn. See post for various methods. Once cooled, cut kernels off the cob, and place into a bowl.
Prepare the dressing: In a bowl, whisk together all the dressing ingredients.
Prep herbs and veggies: Chop cilantro, green onion, and any add-ins you desire.
Assemble the pasta salad: Combine all the ingredients, toss with the dressing, and adjust spices as desired! You may want a little more salt, pepper, spice, and even mayo or lime juice here!
Enjoy immediately. Best if eaten immediately once pasta salad is dressed.

Notes

You have a few options here, and can opt for preparing the corn any way that is easiest for you! This pasta salad works with any of these options:

Grilling the corn! This is my favorite method as the charred corn flavor really makes this pasta salad pop.
Instant Pot Corn on the Cob, we also love this easy method.
Another easy method... simply boil it!
Use frozen corn (fire-roasted or regular)! Use 2 bags. Simply sauté it in a skillet with a little oil until cooked! Don't overcook the corn or it will be mushy.

Nutrition