This Easy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a fun and tasty mix of pasta, sweet corn, and fresh veggies. It’s creamy, zesty, and perfect for summer gatherings!
You can enjoy it as a side dish or a light meal. Honestly, I sometimes eat it right out of the bowl. Who can resist? 🍽️ Plus, it’s super simple to make—just mix and chill!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Bowtie pasta (farfalle) works beautifully here, offering a fun shape. However, you can substitute with any pasta you like, such as fusilli or rotini. Just ensure it’s a type that holds dressing well!
Corn: Fresh corn gives the best bite and sweetness. But if it’s out of season or you’re short on time, frozen corn is a great alternative! You can even use canned corn, just be sure to drain it well.
Cotija Cheese: This cheese adds a distinct flavor, but if you can’t find it, feta works nicely too! You can also try using ricotta or goat cheese for a different twist.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens up the dish, but bottled lime juice will do in a pinch. If you don’t have lime, lemon juice is a good substitute!
Seasonings: Chili powder and smoked paprika are key for that smoky flavor. If you want a spicy kick, try adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce to taste.
How Do I Get the Corn Perfectly Charred?
Charred corn really enhances the flavor of this salad. To get that deep flavor, here’s what to do:
- Use medium-high heat to cook fresh corn. This ensures it char nicely without steaming.
- If using frozen corn, thaw it first. Sauté briefly to get just a little char. Too long can lead to mushy corn!
- Keep it moving in the pan! Stir occasionally to avoid burning but allow it to sit long enough to develop that lovely char.
This simple tip will take your salad to the next level, filling it with rich, smoky notes. Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 ounces bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 3 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (about 4 ears)
For the Creamy Dressing:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta as a substitute)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Fresh Flavor:
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pasta salad takes about 20 minutes of prep time and at least 30 minutes to chill for the best flavor. So, you’re looking at about an hour to whip this up and let those flavors mingle. Perfect for any gathering!
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 directions until it’s al dente (that means firm to the bite!). Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking. Set it aside while you prep everything else.
2. Prepare the Corn:
If you’re using fresh corn, carefully remove the kernels from the cob. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, then toss in those corn kernels. Cook while stirring occasionally until they turn slightly charred and are fully cooked—this should take about 5 to 7 minutes. If you’re using frozen corn, simply thaw it, drain any excess moisture, and sauté it lightly to capture some of that delicious char flavor!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This will create a creamy dressing that pulls everything together beautifully.
4. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
Now, take your cooled pasta and add it to the bowl with the dressing. Toss in the charred corn, crumbled cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and sliced green onions. Mix everything gently but thoroughly until all the ingredients are coated in that lovely creamy dressing.
5. Adjust Seasoning:
Give your salad a taste! This is the moment to adjust any seasoning—add more salt, pepper, lime juice, or chili powder to match your flavor preferences. Make it your own!
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the pasta salad with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it into the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, garnish with extra cotija cheese, a sprinkle of chili powder, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges if you like!
Enjoy this creamy, tangy, and slightly smoky Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad as a perfect side dish or a light, refreshing meal! You’ll love it! 🌽
FAQ for Easy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! Any pasta shape like rotini, penne, or even shells would work well. Just keep in mind that smaller shapes tend to hold the dressing better!
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make this pasta salad dairy-free, substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan alternatives. You can use a plant-based yogurt and a vegan mayo. For cheese, try a dairy-free feta or simply omit it for a lighter salad!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier! Just give it a good stir before serving again.
Can I Add More Veggies?
Absolutely! Feel free to add diced bell peppers, jalapeños, or even avocado for extra flavor and nutrition. Just chop them up and toss them in with the other ingredients!
