This Street Corn Pasta Salad combines the bold flavors of Mexican street corn (elote) with tender pasta for a creamy, tangy, smoky side dish that’s perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or easy meal prep.
🧾 Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
🍝 Salad Base
- 12 oz pasta (rotini, shells, or penne)
- 2 cups corn (fresh, frozen, or grilled)
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2–3/4 cup cotija cheese (or feta)
🥣 Street Corn Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp lime juice (fresh)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional: pinch of cayenne for heat
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Corn
- For best flavor, char corn in a skillet or grill until slightly golden.
- Let cool before mixing.
3. Make the Dressing
- In a bowl, whisk mayo, sour cream, lime juice, and spices until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine Everything
- In a large bowl, mix pasta, corn, onion, cilantro, and cotija cheese.
- Pour dressing over and toss until fully coated.
5. Chill & Serve
- Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
💡 Tips for Best Results
- Grilled corn gives the best smoky street flavor
- Add dressing gradually so it doesn’t get too heavy
- Fresh lime juice is key for brightness
- Let it rest so flavors fully blend
🔁 Variations
- Spicy version: Add hot sauce or extra cayenne
- Protein boost: Add grilled chicken or shrimp
- Healthier version: Use more Greek yogurt, less mayo
- Extra cheesy: Add more cotija or parmesan
🍽️ Serving Ideas
- Perfect for BBQs, cookouts, and potlucks
- Serve with tacos, grilled meats, or burgers
- Great as a make-ahead summer side dish
🔥 Final Thoughts
This Street Corn Pasta Salad is creamy, zesty, smoky, and packed with bold flavor, making it an instant crowd favorite 🌽🥗🔥