This Easy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a fun twist on classic pasta. With sweet corn, creamy dressing, and a zesty kick, it’s bursting with flavor!
Honestly, who can resist a salad with cheese and spices? I like to serve this at picnics, and it vanishes every time. Perfect for warm days or anytime you need a quick meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: Rotini works great because the twists hold the dressing well. You can substitute with other pasta shapes like fusilli or penne if you prefer!
Corn Kernels: I love using fresh corn for that crunch. However, frozen corn is a good alternative—just thaw it before using. Canned corn can work too, but drain and rinse it well to reduce sodium.
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: The mayo gives creaminess while sour cream adds a bit of tang. If you want a lighter version, Greek yogurt can be a great swap for either or both!
Cotija Cheese: This cheese is classic in Mexican dishes. If you can’t find Cotija, feta cheese is another tasty option, though it has a slightly different flavor.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is key for brightness. If you’re not a fan, try parsley or omit it altogether for a milder taste.
How Can I Get My Corn perfectly Charred?
Charring the corn adds a beautiful flavor to your pasta salad. To achieve the best results, follow these steps:
- Use a skillet over medium heat for even cooking.
- Add a drizzle of oil if necessary to prevent sticking.
- Sauté the corn until you see some golden brown spots—this usually takes about 5 minutes.
- Let it cool slightly before mixing it with the other ingredients. This helps maintain the crunch!
Easy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 3 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
- 1/2 cup crumbled Cotija cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1-2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pasta salad will take about 15 minutes of prep time and another 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. All together, plan for about 45 minutes before you can serve it. It’s perfect for a make-ahead meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Once boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. After it’s cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set it aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Sauté the Corn:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the corn kernels. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they are slightly charred and aromatic. This step adds a wonderful flavor to your salad. Once done, take them off the heat and allow them to cool for a few minutes.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream (or crema), fresh lime juice, chili powder, ground cumin, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything well until you have a creamy dressing.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Add the cooled pasta, charred corn, sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, and crumbled Cotija cheese to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
5. Garnish and Chill:
Transfer the pasta salad to a serving bowl. Sprinkle some extra Cotija cheese, a dash of chili powder, and some fresh cilantro on top for garnish. Cover the bowl and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. This chilling time also helps the salad get refreshing and tasty!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once ready, serve the pasta salad chilled or at room temperature. It’s an excellent dish for picnics, barbecues, or any gathering. Enjoy the delicious, bright, and slightly spicy flavors of this Mexican street corn-inspired pasta salad!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini is a great choice because its shape holds the dressing well, you can use other pasta like penne, fusilli, or even bowties. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make this pasta salad vegan, substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with plant-based options like vegan mayo and dairy-free yogurt or sour cream. You can also use nutritional yeast instead of Cotija cheese for a cheesy flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld as it sits, but it’s best to eat it within this time frame for optimal taste and freshness!
Is There a Way to Make This Salad Spicier?
If you like a bit more spice, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the dressing. You can also increase the amount of chili powder to suit your taste. Just remember to start small and adjust gradually!
