Description
This vibrant and flavorful Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad combines the smoky taste of grilled corn with the richness of a creamy dressing, perfectly balancing spices and tangy lime juice. It’s an ideal side dish for BBQs, picnics, or any meal that needs a zesty twist.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz. pasta (fusilli or penne)
- 3 cups grilled corn kernels (from about 4 ears of corn)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 cup crumbled Cotija cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lime wedges for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
- Prepare the Corn: Grill the corn until slightly charred, then cut the kernels off the cob. If using frozen corn, sauté until slightly browned.
- Make the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, paprika, cumin, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the pasta, grilled corn, red onion, and cilantro to the dressing. Toss until evenly coated.
- Add Cheese: Gently fold in the crumbled Cotija cheese.
- Chill: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Garnish with extra cilantro, Cotija cheese, and lime wedges before serving.
Notes
- Customization: Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more cayenne pepper or including diced jalapeños.
- Make Ahead: This salad tastes even better when made a few hours in advance. Just give it a good stir before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling, Mixing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, Corn Salad, BBQ Side Dish