Taco Pasta Salad with Corn

Name: Taco Pasta Salad with Corn
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz rotini pasta; 1 cup sweet corn (canned or frozen); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Juice of 1 lime; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fast & Easy Recipes

I love making this Taco Pasta Salad with Corn because it brings together all my favorite flavors in a fun and satisfying way. The recipe is simple yet delicious, and it's perfect for both weeknight dinners and casual gatherings. The combination of al dente pasta, zesty taco seasoning, and sweet corn gives every bite a burst of flavor. It's a great way to enjoy a taste of taco night in a creative format, and the best part is that it's a dish everyone raves about!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-02T16:47:28.205Z

When I first came up with the idea for this Taco Pasta Salad, I was looking for a way to combine two of my favorite meals: tacos and pasta. After experimenting with a few ingredients, I discovered that corn adds a wonderful sweetness that complements the spicy taco seasoning beautifully. I also love how the pasta provides a great base while soaking up all the wonderful flavors.

This dish works perfectly for meal prep too! I often make a big batch at the beginning of the week, and it keeps well in the fridge for several days. Just give it a quick stir before serving, and it's ready to go!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Vibrant flavors that remind you of taco night
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion
Packed with nutrients from fresh ingredients

      

Why Timing is Important

Cooking the rotini pasta to the perfect al dente texture is crucial in this salad. Al dente pasta has a slight bite to it, which adds a wonderful texture contrast to the crunchy vegetables. To achieve this, start checking the pasta a minute or two before the package instructions suggest. When it reaches that ideal firmness, drain it immediately and rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and prevents the pasta from becoming mushy in the salad.

Remember, the goal is to make sure the pasta retains its structure and doesn’t become soggy when mixed with the dressing. If you happen to overcook it, don't panic! You can still use it; just be prepared for a different texture. Consider balancing it with extra crunchy vegetables, like cucumber or radishes, to maintain that desired contrast.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this Taco Pasta Salad serves a specific purpose. The sweet corn adds a pop of natural sweetness and pairs beautifully with the zesty taco seasoning. You can use canned corn for convenience or frozen corn for a fresh taste; just make sure to blanch it if using frozen to maintain its bright color and flavor. Cherry tomatoes not only provide acidity but also visual appeal with their bright color and burst of juice as you bite into them.

If you're looking for dietary swaps, black beans or chickpeas make excellent additions or substitutes for a protein boost. They will complement the flavors well and add a heartiness to the salad, making it more filling. Also, if you prefer a milder flavor, try using a low-sodium taco seasoning and adjust to taste.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your Taco Pasta Salad with Corn:

Ingredients

8 oz rotini pasta
1 cup sweet corn (canned or frozen)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
1 packet taco seasoning
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lime
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all the ingredients thoroughly for a delicious salad.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your salad:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, corn, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.

Season the Salad

Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the salad. Add olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until well combined.

Serve

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy!

Enjoy your fresh and flavorful Taco Pasta Salad!

Pro Tips

For added protein, consider tossing in some black beans or grilled chicken. This salad also benefits from a little extra lime juice for freshness!

Make-Ahead Tips

This Taco Pasta Salad is an excellent make-ahead option. To keep it fresh, combine the ingredients but hold off on adding the lime juice and olive oil until just before serving. These ingredients can cause the vegetables to become soggy if left too long. If you're prepping for a gathering, you can prepare the pasta and mix the chopped veggies the night before, which saves time on the day of your event.

When storing leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will keep its flavors for about 2-3 days but expect the texture of the vegetables to soften slightly. I recommend enjoying it within the first day for the best experience, when it’s still crunchy and vibrant.

Serving Suggestions

This salad shines on its own but can also be served alongside other dishes for a more complete meal. Pair it with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein, or serve it as a side dish at your next barbecue. You could even use it as a filling in lettuce wraps for a fresh twist! Another delicious idea is to serve it atop a bed of greens for an added dose of crunch and color.

If you want to add a spicy kick, consider mixing in some diced jalapeños or a hint of chipotle sauce. Not only will it enhance the flavor profile, but it will elevate the dish to cater to those who love a bit of heat. Don’t hesitate to also sprinkle some feta or queso fresco for a creamy, salty element that beautifully complements the other flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

Absolutely! This salad can be made a day ahead. Just keep it covered in the fridge.

→ Can I substitute the pasta?

Yes, feel free to use gluten-free pasta or any pasta shape you prefer.

→ Is this salad vegetarian?

Yes, this is a vegetarian-friendly recipe. You can add protein if desired.

→ How long will this salad last in the fridge?

It will last up to 3 days in the fridge. Just stir before serving.