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Healthy Mexican Corn Pasta Recipe

4.9 from 53 reviews

A fresh and healthier take on Mexican corn pasta featuring a colorful mix of sweet corn, bell peppers, black beans, and zesty lime, tossed together with cheese and cilantro for a quick and nutritious meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli recommended)
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 medium bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare Vegetables: While pasta is cooking, dice the bell pepper, chop the cilantro, and drain and rinse the black beans if canned.
  3. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with corn, diced bell pepper, black beans, and chopped cilantro. Add the shredded cheese on top.
  4. Add Lime and Seasonings: Drizzle lime juice over the mixture, season with salt and black pepper to taste, and add olive oil if using. Toss everything together gently to combine all the flavors.
  5. Serve: Serve immediately while the cheese is slightly melted or chilled if preferred as a pasta salad.

Notes

  • Use fresh corn for a sweeter taste or frozen corn when fresh is unavailable.
  • Cheese choice can be adjusted to preference; feta or cotija works well for a more authentic Mexican flavor.
  • This dish can be enjoyed warm or cold as a pasta salad.
  • Adding avocado slices or a sprinkle of chili powder enhances the flavor profile.

Keywords: Mexican corn pasta, healthy pasta recipe, vegetarian Mexican pasta, corn pasta salad, quick pasta dish