When summertime hits and fresh corn is in abundance, there’s one dish that captures the spirit of outdoor dining, BBQs, and vibrant flavors: Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad. Inspired by the beloved street food Elote — grilled corn slathered in creamy sauce, chili, lime, and cheese — this pasta salad brings all the bold, spicy, tangy flavors of Mexico’s favorite street snack into a satisfying and shareable side dish.
This isn’t your average pasta salad. It’s rich and creamy, with pops of sweetness from roasted corn, tang from lime juice, a kick from chili powder, and a savory finish from cotija cheese. Whether served at a cookout, picnic, or family dinner, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
What Is Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a fusion dish that combines the creamy, smoky flavors of elote with tender pasta to create a flavorful and hearty salad. It includes all the traditional toppings — mayonnaise, lime, cotija cheese, chili powder, and cilantro — mixed with pasta and often additional vegetables like red onion and bell pepper for crunch and color.
This salad works well as a side for grilled meats, tacos, or burgers but is also filling enough to be enjoyed on its own.
The Inspiration: Elote (Mexican Street Corn)
To understand this dish, it helps to know the inspiration behind it. Elote is a popular Mexican street food where ears of corn are grilled and then slathered in a creamy mixture of mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, and cheese. It’s smoky, spicy, creamy, tangy, and utterly addictive.
This pasta salad captures all of that goodness but makes it easier to serve a crowd, especially at gatherings where bite-sized portions are more practical than eating corn on the cob.
Key Ingredients in Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Here’s what makes this dish shine:
- Pasta: Short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni work best for holding onto the creamy dressing.
- Corn: Fresh grilled corn is ideal, but canned or frozen (and roasted) corn can work in a pinch.
- Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: These form the creamy base of the dressing, just like traditional elote.
- Lime Juice: Adds brightness and cuts through the richness of the dressing.
- Cotija Cheese: A salty, crumbly Mexican cheese that adds depth and authenticity. Feta can be substituted if needed.
- Chili Powder or Tajín: Brings smoky spice and color.
- Garlic & Red Onion: For a savory kick and texture.
- Cilantro: Adds freshness and color.
- Jalapeño (optional): For those who like a little extra heat.
How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad: Step-by-Step
1. Cook the Pasta
Begin by cooking the pasta until al dente, according to package instructions. Rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking and cool it down for the salad.
2. Prepare the Corn
Grill fresh corn on the cob until slightly charred, then slice off the kernels. If using frozen or canned corn, pan-roast it in a skillet until golden and caramelized.
3. Mix the Dressing
In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine the Salad
In the same bowl or a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, grilled corn, chopped red onion, diced jalapeño (if using), and fresh cilantro. Toss everything gently to coat with the dressing.
5. Finish with Cheese and Extra Lime
Fold in the crumbled cotija cheese and add a final squeeze of lime juice. Garnish with more chili powder or Tajín, extra cilantro, and a dusting of cheese.
6. Chill and Serve
Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together. It can also be made a few hours ahead and kept in the fridge.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Bold Flavor: Every bite is packed with zesty lime, smoky chili, and creamy richness.
- Perfect Texture: Crunchy corn and onions balance the soft pasta and creamy dressing.
- Crowd-Friendly: Easy to double or triple for gatherings and always a hit.
- Customizable: Spice it up or down, swap in different veggies, or add protein like grilled chicken or shrimp.
Variations and Add-In Ideas
Want to make this salad your own? Here are some fun and delicious variations:
- Add Avocado: For extra creaminess and a buttery bite.
- Use Greek Yogurt: Swap some or all of the sour cream for Greek yogurt to lighten it up.
- Spice It Up: Add chipotle powder, hot sauce, or roasted poblano peppers.
- Make It a Meal: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans for a heartier version.
- Vegetable Boost: Mix in chopped bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or shredded cabbage for more crunch and color.
What to Serve with Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
This salad is incredibly versatile. It pairs beautifully with:
- BBQ Ribs or Grilled Chicken
- Carne Asada or Street Tacos
- Burgers and Hot Dogs
- Grilled Vegetables or Kabobs
- Fajitas or Quesadillas
It’s also a great addition to potlucks, picnic baskets, or meal prep menus.
Final Thoughts
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is the perfect summer dish: creamy, spicy, tangy, and full of texture and color. It takes all the addictive flavors of elote and combines them with the comforting familiarity of pasta salad. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make, feeds a crowd, and can be customized to suit your taste.
So next time you’re looking for a dish that brings bold flavor to the table, give this recipe a try — and watch it disappear in minutes!