This Easy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a quick and tasty dish, packed with fresh flavors. Made with pasta, sweet corn, and simple spices, it’s a crowd-pleaser for sure!
What I love about this salad is how colorful it looks and how easy it is to whip up. It’s perfect for parties or a lazy dinner, and who doesn’t love that creamy dressing? 🌽🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: Rotini is perfect for this recipe because its twists trap the dressing well. If you don’t have rotini, you can substitute with fusilli, penne, or even a gluten-free pasta if needed.
Corn: You can use fresh corn for a crunchier texture, but canned or frozen corn works just as well. If fresh corn is out of season, frozen is often sweeter than canned. It’s a great year-round option.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives a nice salty tang to this dish. If you need a dairy-free alternative, try using crumbled tofu mixed with lemon juice or a dairy-free feta cheese. Also, goat cheese can be a creamy substitute if you love its flavor.
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: These give the salad a creamy richness. If you want a lighter version, Greek yogurt can replace both mayonnaise and sour cream, or use plain yogurt for a tangy twist.
Cilantro: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, fresh parsley works great as a substitute. You could also use basil for a different fresh flavor.
How Do I Cook Pasta to Perfect Al Dente?
Cooking pasta correctly is crucial for this salad’s texture. Al dente means tender but still firm to the bite. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil before adding the rotini.
- Check the package for cooking time, but usually, it’s about 8-10 minutes. Start tasting a minute before the time is up.
- When done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop further cooking.
- Let it cool completely before adding to the salad. This prevents it from becoming mushy.
How to Make Easy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This pasta salad takes about 10-15 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So, in total, you’ll need around 40-45 minutes before you can dig in. It’s quick to make and perfect for serving later!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add the rotini pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. When it’s done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it off. This helps stop the cooking process and keeps it from getting mushy. Set it aside to drain completely.
2. Combine the Main Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, gather your cooked pasta, corn, crumbled feta cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, and lime juice. Make sure to mix them gently so everything stays intact, especially the pasta and the feta cheese.
3. Add Seasoning and Freshness:
Now, add the chopped cilantro and sprinkle in the chili powder. Season the mixture with salt and pepper according to your taste. These little touches will enhance the flavors and give it that delicious Mexican twist!
4. Mix it All Together:
Stir the salad well until all the ingredients are nicely combined. You want every bite to be packed with flavor!
5. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making it even tastier.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, take the salad out of the fridge. You can garnish it with additional cilantro and a sprinkle of chili powder for that extra flair. Enjoy your refreshing Easy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta for This Salad?
Absolutely! While rotini is a great choice for this salad, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even shell pasta. Just be sure to cook it according to the package instructions and let it cool before combining it with the other ingredients.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan-Friendly?
Yes! To make this salad vegan, simply swap out the feta cheese for a vegan cheese substitute, use vegan mayonnaise, and replace the sour cream with a plant-based alternative like cashew cream or coconut yogurt. The salad will still be delicious and full of flavor!
How to Store Leftover Pasta Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 3 days for optimal freshness. If the salad seems dry after sitting, simply toss in a splash of lime juice or a bit of extra mayonnaise before serving again.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your salad by adding diced bell peppers, red onions, or diced avocado for extra flavor and texture. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning as needed to complement the new ingredients!
