Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the delightful essence of traditional elote with the satisfying texture of pasta. This easy-to-make salad is perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or as a refreshing lunch option. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this colorful salad packed with fresh ingredients like charred corn, zesty lime, and creamy dressing, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The unique combination of flavors not only makes it visually appealing but also deliciously irresistible. Serve it alongside grilled meats or enjoy it on its own for a delightful meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or a dairy-free alternative)
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or a plant-based alternative)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (or a dairy-free alternative)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and cool.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the corn. Cook for 5-7 minutes until slightly charred, then cool.
- In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add cooled pasta, charred corn, cotija cheese, red onion, and cilantro to the dressing; toss until fully coated.
- Adjust seasoning as needed and serve immediately or refrigerate until ready.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 20mg