Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Craving a fun twist on pasta salad? This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is creamy, zesty, and loaded with flavor. It’s easy to make and packed with protein thanks to the spiral pasta. Perfect for BBQs, meal prep, or a quick lunch. You’ll love the bold mix of sweet corn, crunchy veggies, and a tangy chili-lime dressing. 

Why You’ll Love This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

• High in protein: Uses protein-packed spiral pasta to keep you fuller longer.
• Bold, zesty flavor: Creamy lime-chili dressing brings the corn salad to life.
• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
• Perfect for gatherings: A crowd-pleaser that’s ideal for BBQs, picnics, and potlucks.
• Great for meal prep: Stores well and tastes even better the next day.

Recipe Tips

• Toast the corn: Lightly char canned or frozen corn in a dry skillet for extra flavor.
• Cool pasta fully: Rinse with cold water and let it cool before mixing to prevent sogginess.
• Chill before serving: Let the salad sit for at least 30 minutes for best flavor.
• Adjust spice level: Add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne if you like heat.
• Use fresh lime juice: For the brightest, most authentic taste.

Pasta Salad Alternatives

• Swap the pasta: Use whole wheat, chickpea, or gluten-free pasta for your needs.
• Make it lighter: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a lighter, tangy dressing.
• Add protein: Toss in grilled chicken, black beans, or crumbled cotija cheese.
• Use other veggies: Try green onions, avocado, or diced jalapeño for a flavor boost.
• Make it dairy-free: Use a vegan mayo and skip cheese add-ons.

Swaggy Eats

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is creamy, zesty, and packed with flavor! It’s the perfect side dish for BBQs, potlucks, or easy weeknight meals.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Course: dinner, Lunch, Meal Prep, Side Dish

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 320

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 12 oz protein spiral pasta (box)
• 1½ cup corn (fresh, canned, or thawed frozen)
• 1 cup bell pepper, diced (red & orange)
• ½ cup red onion, finely diced

Dressing

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tsp lime juice
• 1 tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• salt & pepper to taste

Method

 

1. Cook Pasta: Boil spiral pasta according to package directions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and let cool completely.
2. Prepare Corn: If using fresh corn, boil or steam it and cut from the cob. If using canned or thawed frozen corn, you can use it as is or lightly toast it in a dry skillet for extra flavor.
3. Make Dressing: In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Mix Salad: In a large bowl, combine pasta, corn, red & orange bell pepper and red onion.
5. Dress and Chill: Add the dressing and mix well to coat. Chill for 30 minutes for best flavor.
6. Serve: Serve cold, optionally garnished with extra lime or chili powder.

Notes

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

Calories: 320
Protein: 9g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 16g
Fiber: 3g

Note: Nutrition may vary depending on exact ingredients and serving size.

Check Out These Side Dish Recipes:

• Cucumber Tomato Pasta Salad : A light and refreshing salad with crisp veggies, pasta, and a tangy dressing.
• Macaroni Salad : Creamy, classic, and perfect for cookouts or make-ahead meals.
• Lemon Chicken Pasta Salad : Bright and zesty with lean protein and fresh herbs.
• Mexican Chicken Salad : Packed with flavor, protein, and colorful veggies for a bold bite.
• Taco Mac and Cheese : A fun mashup of cheesy comfort food and taco night favorites.