Description
A light and flavorful pasta salad inspired by Mexican street corn, featuring sautéed corn, jalapeño, creamy Greek yogurt dressing, and cotija cheese. Perfect for a summer gathering or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fusilli pasta or similar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 jalapeño, seeds removed and finely diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese (can substitute with feta), divided
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Lime wedges, for serving
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (or coconut aminos)
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the fusilli pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add corn kernels and sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden and slightly charred. Add jalapeño and sauté for another minute. Set aside to cool.
- In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice, Worcestershire sauce, half the cotija cheese, 1/4 teaspoon chili powder, and salt to taste until smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sautéed corn, and jalapeño. Drizzle with the dressing and toss until well coated.
- Garnish with remaining cotija cheese, additional cilantro, a sprinkle of chili powder, and serve with lime wedges.
Notes
- Substitute cotija with feta for a different flavor.
- Add black beans, avocado, or grilled chicken for extra protein and texture.
- Use dairy-free alternatives for a vegan version.
- Great for meal prep—flavors deepen after a day in the fridge.
- Can be served cold or gently reheated.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
