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Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that beautifully encapsulates the bold flavors of traditional Mexican street corn while incorporating the delightful texture of pasta. This recipe takes the essence of elote, which is corn on the cob slathered in creamy toppings, and transforms it into a delightful pasta salad that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of sweet corn, crunchy vegetables, creamy dressing, and fresh herbs creates a playful medley of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds.

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Extravaganza

This vibrant pasta salad combines the flavors of Mexican street corn with a creamy dressing, making it a refreshing side dish or main course. It's perfect for gatherings and summer barbecues.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 6
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni or rotini pasta
  • 2 cups corn kernels
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • ½ red onion finely chopped
  • ½ cup Cotija cheese crumbled
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1 ripe avocado diced
  • 1 lime juiced
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: Hot sauce for drizzling

Instructions
 

  • Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water.
  • If using fresh corn, grill or sauté until slightly charred; thaw frozen corn or drain canned corn.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, mayonnaise, sour cream, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  • In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, corn, diced red bell pepper, chopped red onion, Cotija cheese, and cilantro.
  • Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently until coated.
  • Fold in diced avocado just before serving to keep it intact.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning; add hot sauce if desired.
  • Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving, garnished with extra cilantro and Cotija cheese.

Notes

Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Keyword corn, fresh, Mexican, pasta salad, sidedish, summer