Get ready to wow your guests (or just your taste buds) with this vibrant, zesty Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad. It’s a perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and smoky flavors that’s easy on the wallet and big on flavor. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, potluck, or weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to be a hit!
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🥣 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Budget-friendly – Costs less than $5 to make!
✅ Ready in under 30 minutes
✅ Packed with bold flavors
✅ Perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or meal prep
✅ Easily customizable to suit your preferences
🛒 Ingredients
| Ingredient | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|
| 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any short pasta) | $1.00 |
| 2 cups frozen corn (or fresh corn if in season) | $1.00 |
| 1/2 cup mayonnaise | $0.50 |
| 1/4 cup sour cream | $0.50 |
| 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta as a budget alternative) | $1.00 |
| 1 jalapeño, finely diced (optional for heat) | $0.30 |
| 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped | $0.20 |
| 1 tsp chili powder | $0.10 |
| 1 tsp smoked paprika | $0.10 |
| 1 lime, juiced | $0.30 |
| Salt and pepper to taste | Pantry staple |
| Crushed tortilla chips for garnish (optional) | $0.50 |
Total Estimated Cost: ~$5.00
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Corn
- While the pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the corn and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly charred. This gives it that authentic “street corn” flavor.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Add the cooked pasta, corn, jalapeño, cilantro, and crumbled cheese to the dressing. Toss everything together until well coated.
Step 5: Serve
- Top with crushed tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch. Serve immediately or chill for 1 hour for even bolder flavor!
🌟 Tips for Success
✅ For extra flavor, grill fresh corn on the cob and slice the kernels off.
✅ Add diced avocado for creamy richness.
✅ Crumbled bacon makes an excellent addition if you want to take it up a notch.
✅ Spice lovers can add hot sauce or extra chili powder for a kick.
🍴 What to Serve With It
Pair this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad with these dishes for a complete meal:
💰 How to Make It Even Cheaper
- Swap cotija cheese for shredded cheddar or feta to reduce cost.
- Use canned corn instead of fresh or frozen.
- Mix in leftover chicken or beans to stretch this salad into a full meal.
🥄 Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Avoid freezing; the creamy dressing doesn’t hold up well when thawed.
🔥 Final Thoughts
This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to impress your guests or treat yourself to bold, exciting flavors. Enjoy a budget-friendly fiesta in your mouth with this easy-to-make dish!
👉 Have you tried this recipe? Let us know your favorite twist or serving suggestion in the comments below!
