Go Back
–+ servings
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad: A Creamy Summer Delight

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delicious twist on elote, featuring smoky, creamy, and tangy flavors, perfect for summer gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni or penne can swap for gluten-free pasta
For the Corn Mixture
  • 3 cups sweet corn kernels fresh preferred, frozen is an alternative
  • 1 pcs jalapeño pepper seeded and minced; optional
  • 3 tbsp butter can use olive oil for dairy-free
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a lighter option
  • 1 pcs lime juice added for zesty brightness
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder optional smoked paprika for extra flavor
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
  • salt and black pepper to taste
For the Garnish
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro substitute parsley if preferred
  • 1/2 cup cotija cheese omit for vegan option or use nutritional yeast

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Colander
  • Plastic Wrap

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 8 oz of elbow macaroni or penne and cook for about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tbsp of butter. Add 3 cups of sweet corn kernels and sauté for 8-10 minutes until slightly charred.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 tsp of chili powder and 1/4 tsp of smoked paprika into the corn. Allow to cool slightly.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, charred corn, 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, lime juice, 1/2 cup of crumbled cotija cheese, 1/4 cup of cilantro, and jalapeño. Toss gently.
  5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

This salad improves in flavor after chilling, making it perfect for meal prep. Customize by adding fresh ingredients or substitutions based on preference.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!