Street Corn Pasta Salad 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta salad is an irresistible fusion of the beloved flavors of Mexican street corn and pasta. The combination of smoky, roasted corn, creamy dressing, and spicy jalapeños makes each bite a burst of flavor. The tangy lime and fresh cilantro add a refreshing zing, while the cotija cheese adds a savory, crumbly texture. It’s the perfect side dish that’s easy to make, full of flavor, and guaranteed to impress!

Ingredients

• 400g pasta
• 2 roasted corn cobs
• 3 green onions
• 1 shallot
• 2 jalapeños
• 1/2 cup cilantro
• 1 cup cotija cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayo
• 3 cloves garlic
• Juice and zest of 1 lime
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp salt & pepper

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta down. Set aside.
2. Roast the Corn: Roast the corn on the grill or in the oven until it’s golden and slightly charred (about 10 minutes). Once roasted, cut the kernels off the cobs and set them aside.
3. Prepare the Vegetables: Thinly slice the green onions, shallot, and jalapeños. Mince the garlic.
4. Make the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayo, lime juice and zest, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add the minced garlic and mix well until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
5. Assemble the Salad: Add the cooled pasta, roasted corn, green onions, shallot, jalapeños, and cilantro to the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything together until well-coated.
6. Add the Cotija Cheese: Sprinkle the cotija cheese over the salad and gently toss again.
7. Chill and Serve: For best flavor, refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Total Time: 45 minutes (including chilling)

Variations

1. Spicy Kick: For extra heat, add more jalapeños or drizzle some hot sauce over the top.
2. Grilled Veggies: Add grilled bell peppers or zucchini for extra texture and flavor.
3. Vegan Version: Use vegan sour cream and mayo, and substitute the cotija cheese with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast.
4. Extra Protein: Toss in some grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans for a more filling meal.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: This salad is best served chilled, but you can bring it to room temperature for 10 minutes before serving if you prefer.

FAQs

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen corn works just as well as fresh. Simply thaw and drain it before using.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad tastes even better the longer it sits, so feel free to make it a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge and give it a quick toss before serving.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

While cotija cheese is the traditional choice for street corn, you can substitute it with feta or Parmesan if needed.

Can I omit the jalapeños for a milder salad?

Yes, you can omit the jalapeños if you prefer a milder flavor, or substitute with a mild pepper like bell peppers.

How do I roast the corn in the oven?

To roast the corn in the oven, preheat it to 400°F (200°C). Place the corn on a baking sheet and roast for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and slightly charred.

Can I add other herbs to this salad?

Yes! Feel free to add other herbs like parsley or basil for extra flavor.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle will work well for this salad. Just make sure it’s cooked al dente.

How can I make this salad spicier?

Add more jalapeños, sprinkle red pepper flakes, or add some hot sauce to the dressing to increase the spice level.

Can I make this salad gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta to make this salad suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Is this salad vegan-friendly?

This recipe can easily be made vegan by substituting the mayo and sour cream with plant-based alternatives and using vegan cheese.

Conclusion

This Street Corn Pasta Salad combines all the delicious flavors of Mexican street corn with the heartiness of pasta, creating a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying. With a tangy dressing, smoky corn, spicy jalapeños, and creamy cotija, it’s the perfect side dish for summer gatherings, BBQs, or any meal that needs a little extra flavor. Simple to make and packed with bold ingredients, this pasta salad will be a hit every time!

Print