an I make this ahead?

Absolutely! In fact, it tastes even better after chilling overnight as the flavors really meld together. Just give it a good stir before serving.

It can be! Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta - the dressing and other ingredients are naturally GF.

As spicy as you want! Start with half the jalapeño, then add more to taste. For kids or sensitive palates, you can leave it out entirely.

Can I use regular paprika instead of smoked?

ou can, but you'll miss that signature smoky elote flavor. If you must substitute, add a pinch of chipotle powder for smokiness.

Help! I can't find cotija cheese!

No sweat - feta works almost as well (just use a tiny bit less salt in the dressing). Parmesan would be my third choice.

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad in 30 Minutes

Name: Irresistible Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (rotini or fusilli); 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled; 1 tsp chili powder; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1 lime, juiced; 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped; 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced; 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Description

A flavorful twist on classic pasta salad with the bold tastes of Mexican street corn.

Ingredients

8 oz pasta (rotini or fusilli)
2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1 lime, juiced
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
In a large bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Add cooked pasta, corn, cotija cheese, cilantro, red onion, and jalapeño to the bowl.
Toss until well combined.
Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra smokiness, char the corn in a skillet before adding.
Adjust jalapeño amount based on heat preference.
Substitute feta cheese if cotija is unavailable.

Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Category: Salad
Method: No-Cook (except pasta)
Cuisine: Mexican