A vibrant and flavorful pasta salad inspired by Mexican street corn. This dish combines creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy elements for a perfect side or light meal.
Author:Chloe Thompson
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:10 minutes
Total Time:25 minutes
Yield:6-8 servings
Category:Salad
Method:Mixed
Cuisine:Mexican-American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound pasta, cooked and cooled
1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained, or 1.5 cups fresh corn kernels
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta cheese)
1/4 cup finely diced red onion
1/4 cup chopped jalapeño (seeds removed for less heat)
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta with the corn.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, cilantro, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Pour the dressing over the pasta and corn mixture.
Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
Gently toss everything together until well combined.
Fold in the cotija cheese, red onion, and jalapeño.
Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
Serve immediately or chill for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
For a smoky flavor, grill or roast the corn before adding it to the salad.
Adjust the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper to control the spice level.
If cotija cheese is unavailable, feta cheese is a good substitute.