Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad (Gluten Free)

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This Street Corn Pasta Salad is everything you love about Mexican street corn, it's creamy, smoky, tangy and just a little bit spicy. Tossed with tender pasta for the ultimate crowd pleasing side. This pasta salad is about to become your new go to for cookouts this summer, weeknights and everything in between.

There's something about Mexican street corn that just hits, it's a perfect combo of charred corn, creamy sauce, lime and chili. I already have a soft spot for recipes like my Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad and Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos, so turning those flavors into a pasta salad just felt like the natural next step.

This is one of those recipes I keep coming back to when I need something easy but still packed with flavor. It has the same bold, zesty taste as my Mexican Street Corn Chicken and Rice Bowls, but in a chilled, make ahead friendly version that's perfect for gatherings or meal prep.

And being gluten free, I love that I can use my favorite gluten free pasta so no extra steps, no fuss, just the same creamy, delicious results.

WHY YOU'LL MAKE THIS PASTA SALAD ON REPEAT

• Incredibly easy to make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep.

• Perfect for make ahead: Even better after it chills.

• Adaptable recipe: You can adjust the heat and spices to your liking.

• A crowd favorite: Ideal for BBQ's, potlucks and family dinners.

INGREDIENTS YOU NEED

• Gluten free elbow or rotini pasta: I like to use a small round pasta for this recipe and have found elbow or rotini is the best. I love the Jovial brand.

• Corn: Use frozen, fresh or even canned. If using canned, drain before charring.

• Olive oil: To char the corn. Feel free to use your favorite cooking oil.

• Mayo and sour cream: Gives the salad that creamy, tangy taste.

• Lime: The juice from a fresh lime is key!

• Cotija cheese: This classic Mexican style cheese is known to be found in street corn recipes like my Mexican Street Corn Dip and Mexican Street Corn Chicken and Rice Bowls. If you can't find, crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese can be used.

• Chopped cilantro and green onions: Offers the salad a fresh, vibrant, earthy bite.

• Seasonings: Chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper and salt.

• Sliced jalapenos: For garnish (optional).

Scroll down to the recipe card for quantities used.

HOW TO MAKE GLUTEN FREE STREET CORN PASTA SALAD

Step 1: Cook the pasta

Step 2: Char the corn

Step 3: Mix up the dressing

Step 4: Assemble salad

EMILY'S TIPS FOR SUCCESS

• Char the corn. Whether on the grill or in a skillet, that slight char adds so much depth.

• Don't overcook the pasta. Keep it al dente so it holds up once the dressing is added.

• Use fresh limes. I'm a big fan of fresh limes since it will brighten the whole dish up better than bottled lime juice.

• Add fresh herbs last. Cilantro is best stirred in right before serving for freshness.

• Let chill before serving. This is a must! Let chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour so the flavors come together.

WHAT TO SERVE WITH STREET CORN PASTA SALAD

This pasta salad pairs so well with simple, summer protein mains and other fresh side dishes:

• Grilled chicken or steak
• Burgers or sliders
• BBQ Pulled Pork
• Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
• Tex Mex Hot Dogs
• Fresh Guacamole
• Chips and Salsa
• Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Salad with Feta Cheese

MAKE AHEAD DIRECTIONS

This pasta salad is actually better when made ahead, which is why I love it for entertaining. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the fridge.

Before serving, give it a quick stir and freshen it up with an extra squeeze of lime or a spoonful of dressing if needed.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

If the pasta absorbs some of the dressing, just stir in a little extra mayo, lime juice or even a splash of milk to bring it back to life.

RECIPE FAQ'S

Can I use frozen or canned corn instead of fresh?

Yes! Frozen corn works great just thaw and saute it to get a little char. Canned corn works too, but make sure to drain it well and try to brown it in the skillet for better flavor.

What's the best pasta shape to use?

Short gluten free pastas like rotini, bowtie or shells work the best because it holds onto the creamy dressing. I'm a huge fan of the Jovial brand which offers a variety of gluten free pastas.

Can I make this dairy free?

You can! Swap the cheese for a dairy free alternative and omit the sour cream and just double the mayo.

How spicy is this recipe?

It's mild as written, but you can easily adjust it. Adding the jalapenos will definitely give it a kick but that's optional.

Why does my pasta salad seem dry the next day?

Pasta naturally absorbs dressing as it sits. This is super common so just stir in a little extra dressing or lime juice before serving.

I hope you give these Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad a try! If you do give this recipe a try, please let me know!

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