Ingredients
For the Salad
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (rotini, bowtie, or shells)
- 3 cups corn kernels (fresh, grilled, frozen, or canned)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 cup cotija cheese or feta, crumbled
For the Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
- Extra cotija cheese
- Lime wedges
- Hot sauce
- Crushed tortilla chips
- Tajín seasoning
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. Char the Corn
Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the corn until slightly charred and golden in spots, about 5–7 minutes. Let cool slightly.
3. Make the Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together:
- mayonnaise
- sour cream
- lime juice
- chili powder
- smoked paprika
- cumin
- garlic
- salt and pepper
4. Assemble the Salad
Add cooled pasta, corn, bell pepper, jalapeño, onion, cilantro, and cheese into the bowl with dressing.
Toss until everything is evenly coated.
5. Chill and Serve
Refrigerate for at least 20–30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
Top with extra cheese, lime juice, and Tajín if desired.
Tips
Use Grilled Corn for Best Flavor
Fresh grilled corn gives the salad authentic street-corn flavor and smoky sweetness.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta
Keep it al dente so the salad stays firm and doesn’t become mushy after chilling.
Adjust the Heat
- Mild: remove jalapeño seeds
- Spicy: add extra jalapeño or hot sauce
Make It Ahead
This salad tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge because the flavors blend together.
Add Protein
Turn it into a full meal with:
- grilled chicken
- shrimp
- black beans
- avocado
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving because the dressing thickens as it chills.
Serving Ideas
Pairs well with:
- grilled meats
- tacos
- burgers
- BBQ dishes
- picnic spreads
