Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad with Chipotle Lime Dressing

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad with Chipotle Lime Dressing


  • Author: LyndaKitchen
  • Total Time: 35
  • Yield: 8 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad combines the smoky, sweet flavors of elote with a zesty, spicy chipotle lime dressing. Packed with charred corn, salty cotija cheese, and fresh cilantro, it’s the perfect side dish for BBQs or easy work lunches.


Ingredients

Scale

12 oz rotini or fusilli pasta

3 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

1 tablespoon olive oil (for charring corn)

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)

12 chipotle peppers in adobo, minced (plus 1 tablespoon sauce)

2 limes, zested and juiced

1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta)

1/2 cup red onion, finely diced

1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)

1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1 teaspoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and black pepper to taste


Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions for al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.

2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add corn kernels and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and charred in spots (about 8-10 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool.

3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime zest, lime juice, minced chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.

4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, charred corn, red onion, jalapeño, and half of the cotija cheese.

5. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until evenly coated.

6. Stir in the cilantro and the remaining cotija cheese.

7. Taste and adjust seasoning with more lime juice or salt if needed.

8. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

Rinsing the pasta stops the cooking and keeps the salad cool.

For a milder dressing, use less chipotle pepper or omit it and increase the smoked paprika.

If making ahead, add the cilantro and avocado (if using) just before serving to keep them fresh.

Leftovers store well in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

  • Prep Time: 20
  • Cook Time: 15
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 420mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg