Mexican Street Corn Pasta (Printable Recipe)
A colorful pasta salad with charred corn, avocado, black beans, and zesty lime dressing for fresh bold flavor.
# Ingredients You'll Need:
→ Pasta
01 -
2 cups radiatori noodles
→ Main Components
02 -
1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained
03 -
1 large ripe avocado, diced
04 -
3 green onions, thinly sliced
05 -
1/2 bunch fresh cilantro, finely chopped
06 -
1 medium jalapeño pepper, seeded and diced
07 -
6 strips thick-cut bacon, cooked and roughly chopped
08 -
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
09 -
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
→ Dressing
10 -
2 tablespoons olive oil
11 -
1/2 cup full-fat mayonnaise
12 -
3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
13 -
1/8 teaspoon ground cumin
14 -
1/4 teaspoon paprika
15 -
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
16 -
1 teaspoon hot sauce
17 -
Salt and pepper to taste
# Steps to Follow:
01 -
Boil radiatori noodles in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and toss immediately with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking and add flavor as they cool.
02 -
Heat a cast iron skillet over high heat until almost smoking. Spread drained corn kernels in a single layer and let sit untouched for 2-3 minutes until deeply golden and blistered. Flip and char opposite sides for 1 minute more to achieve authentic street corn smokiness.
03 -
In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, charred corn, diced avocado, sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, diced jalapeño, chopped bacon, crumbled feta, and drained black beans. Mix gently to avoid mashing the avocado.
04 -
In a smaller bowl, vigorously whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, cumin, paprika, chili powder, hot sauce, salt, and pepper until creamy and completely blended with no spice clumps.
05 -
Pour dressing over salad and toss with two large spoons until every noodle and vegetable is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately or chill 1-2 hours if making ahead.
# Extra Tips:
01 -
Use a cast iron skillet for corn to achieve the deepest char and authentic street corn flavor
02 -
Rinse pasta in cold water if rushing assembly to prevent overcooking
03 -
Add avocado last to prevent browning and maintain texture
04 -
Crumbled feta creates little flavor bombs throughout the salad
05 -
Store leftovers in airtight container in refrigerator for up to 3 days