Tasty Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Name: Tasty Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (your choice); 1 cup sweet corn (fresh or canned); 1/2 cup red onion, diced; 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup sour cream; Juice of 1 lime; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

This vibrant and refreshing Tasty Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad combines the beloved flavors of traditional Mexican street corn with the heartiness of pasta, making it the perfect dish for summer barbecues, potlucks, or family gatherings. Loaded with sweet corn, creamy tangy dressing, zesty lime, and fresh cilantro, it’s a delightful twist that everyone will love. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, this pasta salad is an unforgettable appetizer that will impress your guests!

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2025-12-11T09:14:15.478Z

Why This Pasta Salad Stands Out

The Tasty Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is not just another pasta salad; it’s an explosion of vibrant flavors and textures that celebrates the warm, bold spirit of Mexican cuisine. Each bite delivers a burst of sweetness from the corn, the crunch from fresh vegetables, and the creaminess of the dressing. This dish effectively marries traditional street corn flavors with pasta, providing a unique culinary experience that is both satisfying and refreshing, perfect for hot summer days.

Moreover, this recipe is highly customizable. Whether you're a fan of spicy foods or prefer milder flavors, you can easily opt for a different dressing or add jalapeños for a kick. This flexibility ensures that it can please a diverse range of palates, making it an excellent dish for gatherings. The blend of ingredients not only promotes a balance of flavor but also presents a feast for the eyes, making it a standout on any picnic table.

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the best aspects of this Tasty Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is its versatility. It serves as an ideal side dish for summer barbecues, potlucks, and family reunions. The bright colors and lively flavors draw guests in, making it a centerpiece that complements grilled meats and other summer fare beautifully. The salad brings joy and excitement to meals and can even stand alone as a light lunch or dinner option.

In addition to warm-weather gatherings, this pasta salad can also be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to deepen as it chills in the refrigerator. Preparing it in advance also takes the stress out of last-minute cooking. Simply serve it cold or at room temperature, and you have an elegant, ready-to-enjoy dish that requires minimal effort on the day of your event.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

This pasta salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Sweet corn is a great source of carbohydrates, providing energy, as well as vitamins like B vitamins, which are essential for brain function. Additionally, it contains antioxidants that are beneficial for overall health. The inclusion of fresh vegetables such as red onion and bell pepper adds crunch along with vital nutrients and fiber, which aids in digestion.

The dressing, made with mayonnaise and sour cream, offers creaminess, but you can make it lighter by using Greek yogurt instead, which increases protein content. The zesty lime juice not only enhances the flavor but also adds vitamin C, important for a healthy immune system. This blend of ingredients means you can enjoy this flavorful dish guilt-free, knowing you’re providing your body with wholesome goodness.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Pasta Salad

8 oz pasta (your choice)
1 cup sweet corn (fresh or canned)
1/2 cup red onion, diced
1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

Dressing

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
Juice of 1 lime
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to adjust the spices in the dressing according to your taste!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.

Prepare the Dressing

In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, corn, red onion, bell pepper, cilantro, and feta cheese. Pour the dressing over and mix well.

Chill and Serve

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

For best results, serve chilled!

Serving Suggestions

For the ultimate serving experience, consider garnishing your Tasty Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad with additional cilantro and a sprinkle of chili powder on top. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also allows your guests to enjoy even more of those delightful flavors as they dive in. Pair it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or veggies for a complete meal that everyone will love.

This pasta salad can also be served alongside tortilla chips for a fun twist, creating a fusion of textures that is sure to impress. Additionally, don’t hesitate to experiment with other toppings like avocado or black beans, both of which would add extra creaminess and depth to the dish.

Storage Tips

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, storing your Tasty Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is simple and straightforward. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It can last up to three days, providing you with a ready-to-eat meal option for busy days ahead. Just make sure to give it a good stir before serving, as the dressing may settle at the bottom.

To maintain its freshness, avoid mixing in the dressing until you’re ready to serve. This prevents the pasta from absorbing too much moisture and keeps the textures intact. If needed, you can add a splash of lime juice or a drizzle of olive oil to revive the flavors if it seems a bit dry after storage.

Variations to Try

Feeling adventurous? There are plenty of variations to try with this recipe. For a southwestern twist, try adding black beans or diced avocado to the mix. These ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also contribute additional nutrients. You could also swap the feta cheese for a pepper jack cheese for a creamy yet spicy kick, aligning perfectly with the essence of Mexican cuisine.

For those who prefer a heartier salad, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp. This transforms the salad into an all-in-one meal, making it suitable for lunch or dinner. The possibilities are endless, and with a little creativity, you can create a personalized version that reflects your own culinary preferences!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just add the cilantro right before serving.