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Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad – A Flavorful Fusion Recipe

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This easy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a flavorful twist on classic street corn (elote), combining creamy dressing, sautéed corn, tender pasta, zesty lime, and salty cotija cheese. Perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or a quick weeknight meal!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 oz corn (frozen, canned, or fresh)
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 8 oz dried pasta (rotini, penne, or farfalle)
  • ¼ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt/cottage cheese)
  • 3 tbsp mayonnaise (adjust to taste)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup cotija cheese, grated (plus extra for topping)
  • ¼ cup red onion or shallot, finely diced
  • 1 lime (juiced)
  • ½ tsp chipotle powder
  • ¼ tsp cumin
  • 2 tbsp cilantro, finely chopped
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • Optional:
    • 1 small jalapeño, seeded & finely diced (or canned poblano peppers for mild heat)

Notes

  • Pasta Choice: Use short pasta like rotini, penne, or farfalle for the best texture.
  • Corn Options: Fresh, frozen, or canned corn all work—just make sure to sauté it for extra flavor.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the chipotle powder and jalapeño to taste for more or less heat.
  • Make Ahead: This salad tastes even better after chilling for an hour, allowing flavors to meld.

Nutrition