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Home » Recipe Index » Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

July 29, 2025 by AleenaSalad

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This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that combines the smokiness of roasted corn with the creaminess of cheese and dressing. Perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or any gathering, this salad brings a fresh and zesty flavor to your table. Its unique blend of ingredients makes it a standout choice that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Prepare: This salad comes together quickly, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings.
  • Bursting with Flavor: The combination of roasted corn, jalapeños, and creamy dressing provides a delicious taste experience.
  • Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with grilled meats or serve it as a vegetarian option at potlucks.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: With its colorful presentation and rich flavors, it’s sure to impress guests of all ages.
  • Customizable: Feel free to adjust the level of spiciness or add other ingredients to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting your cooking adventure, gather the necessary tools. These will help you create the perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

  • Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly until perfectly al dente.
  • Colander: Useful for draining excess water from the cooked pasta effectively.
  • Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without mess.
  • Whisk: Ideal for blending the dressing smoothly without clumps.

Ingredients

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is loaded with roasted corn, Cotija and cheddar, creamy dressing and jalapeños for a kick of heat.

Pasta and Vegetables

  • 1 pound trotolle pasta
  • 6 ears roasted corn
  • 1/2 cup red onion (diced)
  • 1/2 cup jalapeño pepper (diced)

Cheeses

  • 3/4 cup finely shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
  • 3/4 cup finely shredded Cotija cheese (divided)

Dressing Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 lime (juiced)
  • 1-2 teaspoons Tajín

Garnish

  • Freshly snipped cilantro
  • Tajín

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Boil the pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted water.
1. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. Place the cooled, drained pasta in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

Cut the corn off each cob.
1. Add the freshly cut corn to the pasta in the bowl.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Cheese

Add in the diced red onion and diced jalapeño pepper.
1. Mix in 1/2 cup each of cheddar cheese and Cotija cheese.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a separate small bowl:
1. Whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, juice of one lime, and Tajín (start with 1 teaspoon).
2. Pour this dressing over the pasta mixture and mix well to combine.

Step 5: Garnish and Chill

Top the salad with remaining cheeses, additional Tajín, and freshly snipped cilantro.
1. Cover the salad and chill until ready to serve.

Enjoy this vibrant Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad as a refreshing side dish at your next gathering!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant and delicious dish perfect for any gathering. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Standalone Dish

  • Enjoy it on its own as a light lunch or dinner option that’s filling and flavorful.

With Grilled Meats

  • Pair this salad with grilled chicken or steak for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.

Topped with Avocado

  • Add slices of fresh avocado on top for extra creaminess and a boost of healthy fats.

In Lettuce Wraps

  • Serve the salad in lettuce leaves for a fun, low-carb alternative that adds a nice crunch.

At Picnics and BBQs

  • Bring this dish to outdoor gatherings where it can shine as a refreshing side everyone will love.

Garnished with Extra Cilantro

  • Sprinkle additional cilantro on top just before serving for an extra pop of freshness.
Mexican this …

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

To make the best Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, consider these helpful tips to elevate your dish.

  • Use Fresh Corn: Opt for fresh corn when in season; it enhances the flavor and texture of the salad.
  • Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill for at least an hour helps flavors meld together beautifully.
  • Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of jalapeño and Tajín based on your preference for heat.
  • Experiment with Cheeses: While Cotija is traditional, try adding other cheeses like feta or pepper jack for variety.
  • Add More Veggies: Consider incorporating bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrients.
  • Make Ahead: This pasta salad can be made up to a day in advance, making it perfect for busy schedules.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Complement your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad with these tasty side dishes that will round out your meal perfectly.

  1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers add protein and flavor that pairs well with the salad.
  2. Black Bean Tacos: Flavorful black bean tacos provide a hearty option that balances the lightness of the salad.
  3. Guacamole and Chips: Creamy guacamole served with crunchy tortilla chips makes for a classic pairing.
  4. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables brings warmth and earthy flavors to your table.
  5. Fruit Salsa: A fresh fruit salsa adds sweetness and brightness, enhancing the overall dining experience.
  6. Cornbread Muffins: These sweet muffins offer a delightful contrast in texture and flavor alongside the salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To create the best Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, avoid these common pitfalls.

  • Underestimating the seasoning: Many people skip adding enough Tajín, which can enhance the dish’s flavor. Always taste and adjust accordingly.
  • Using warm pasta: Adding warm pasta to your salad can wilt other ingredients. Ensure you cool it thoroughly after cooking.
  • Neglecting the cheese: Skimping on Cotija or cheddar will lessen the creamy texture and flavor. Use the recommended amounts for a balanced taste.
  • Ignoring freshness: Using older vegetables can affect the salad’s crunch and appeal. Always choose fresh corn, onions, and jalapeños.
  • Skipping chill time: Not allowing the salad to chill means missing out on mingled flavors. Aim for at least 30 minutes in the fridge before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain texture.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

  • This salad is not ideal for freezing due to its creamy base and fresh ingredients.
  • If you must freeze, do so before adding fresh herbs and cheese. Use within 1 month.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread on a baking sheet until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
  • Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This prevents overheating and retains texture.
  • Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad combines traditional street corn flavors with pasta, featuring roasted corn, creamy dressing, and spices.

Can I customize my Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini, or swap cheeses based on availability or preference.

How can I make this dish spicy?

Increase the amount of jalapeño or add diced serrano peppers for more heat. You might also sprinkle extra Tajín on top before serving.

How do I make this vegan-friendly?

Substitute dairy products with vegan mayo and cheese alternatives. Ensure that all ingredients are plant-based for a complete vegan dish.

Is it safe to leave this salad out at room temperature?

It’s best to keep it refrigerated until serving. If left out for more than 2 hours, it should be discarded due to food safety concerns.

Final Thoughts

The Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of flavors perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows for customization based on personal tastes or available ingredients. Whether served at a summer picnic or as a side dish at dinner, this salad is sure to impress!

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Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad


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  • Author: Aleena
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
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Description

Discover the irresistible Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, a vibrant dish that fuses the smoky flavors of roasted corn with creamy cheeses and zesty dressing. Perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or potlucks, this salad is not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor. The combination of fresh ingredients like jalapeños and Cotija cheese makes it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will adore. Quick to prepare and highly customizable, you can easily adjust the spice levels or add extra veggies to suit your taste.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound trotolle pasta
  • 6 ears roasted corn
  • 1/2 cup red onion, diced
  • 1/2 cup jalapeño pepper, diced
  • 3/4 cup finely shredded cheddar cheese
  • 3/4 cup finely shredded Cotija cheese
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Tajín seasoning

Instructions

  1. Boil the trotolle pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Cut the corn off each cob and add it to a large mixing bowl with the cooled pasta.
  3. Stir in diced red onion and jalapeño pepper, followed by half of each cheese (cheddar and Cotija).
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and Tajín seasoning. Pour over the pasta mixture and mix thoroughly.
  5. Garnish with remaining cheeses, additional Tajín, and freshly snipped cilantro. Chill before serving.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

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