Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe is a delightful twist on traditional pasta salad, bringing together the vibrant flavors of fresh summer corn, spicy jalapenos, and a zesty chili lime dressing. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is versatile and packed with flavor. Perfect for picnics or potlucks, it caters to different tastes and adds a refreshing touch to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
• Bursting with Flavor: Fresh corn, jalapenos, and a creamy dressing create a delightful taste experience.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a side or main dish; perfect for any occasion from casual dinners to festive gatherings.
• Easily Customizable: Add more veggies or swap ingredients based on your preferences for endless variations.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Serves six generously, ensuring there’s enough for everyone at the table.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, gather your essential tools to ensure smooth preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Grill or skillet
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Colander: Makes draining pasta quick and easy while preventing overcooking.
• Grill or skillet: Provides options for cooking corn to enhance its flavor through charring.

Ingredients

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is bursting with the flavors of fresh summer corn, jalapenos, red onion, and a creamy chili lime dressing. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the perfect dish for feeding a crowd!

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or melted butter
• 6 ears corn (Husks removed – approximately 4 ½ to 5 cups of corn kernels or frozen or canned corn)
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 8 oz. dry uncooked pasta (such as fusilli and farfalle)
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 3 tablespoons sour cream (or Mexican crema)
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon lime zest (from one lime)
• ¼ cup lime juice freshly squeezed (from 1 ½ to 2 limes)
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 medium jalapenos (seeded and sliced/chopped)
• ½ cup red onion (chopped finely)
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro (chopped – more to use as garnish)
• ½ cup cotija cheese (crumbled)

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Corn

When it comes to cooking the corn, you have two options:
Grill Corn: Heat a gas grill to 400 degrees F. Peel back the husks of the corn and remove the silk. Brush them with oil on all sides. Place them on the grill and cook for about 15-20 minutes until lightly charred, turning every 5 minutes. Let cool slightly before cutting off the kernels.
Cook in Skillet: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove kernels from the cob using a sharp knife and transfer them to the skillet. Cook for 8–10 minutes until slightly caramelized.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While cooling the corn:
1. Fill a large pot with water and season generously with salt.
2. Bring water to a boil and add pasta.
3. Cook until al dente following package instructions. Drain and set aside in a large bowl.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked corn into the bowl with pasta.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl:
1. Whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, chili powder, lime juice, lime zest, salt, and pepper.
2. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 5: Assemble Salad

Drizzle dressing over the corn-pasta mixture:
1. Toss gently to coat evenly.
2. Add jalapenos, red onion, and cilantro; stir well.
3. Garnish with extra cilantro if desired.

Enjoy your flavorful Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for gatherings. It can be served in multiple ways, ensuring everyone enjoys its deliciousness.

As a Standalone Dish

• This salad can be the star of your meal. Serve it chilled for a refreshing option on hot days.

As a Side Dish

• Pair this pasta salad with grilled meats or tacos for a delightful combination that complements the flavors of both dishes.

At Picnics and Potlucks

• This dish is great for sharing! Its colorful presentation will attract attention, making it an excellent choice for potlucks.

With Additional Toppings

• Consider adding extra jalapenos or crumbled cotija cheese on top before serving for added flavor and texture.

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How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

To ensure your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad reaches its full potential, consider these simple tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and ripe vegetables enhance the overall flavor and texture of the salad.
• Adjust the Spiciness: Modify the amount of jalapenos based on your heat preference. You can remove seeds for less heat.
• Let it Chill: Allow the salad to sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
• Customize Your Dressing: Feel free to tweak the dressing ingredients to suit your taste. More lime juice or chili powder can add a nice kick.
• Garnish Generously: Adding extra cilantro and cheese right before serving not only looks appealing but also boosts flavor.
• Consider Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Enjoy within 2-3 days for best quality.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

This pasta salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance your meal experience. Here are some suggestions:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewered and grilled to perfection provides a savory complement to the pasta salad.
2. Black Bean Tacos: These hearty tacos are easy to prepare and add a protein-rich option alongside your salad.
3. Chips and Guacamole: A classic combination that adds crunch and creaminess, making your meal more enjoyable.
4. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices pairs well with this pasta salad, offering a comforting side.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies provide additional nutrients while enhancing presentation on your table.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa offer a filling option that complements the lightness of the pasta salad.
7. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins are a delightful addition that balances the heat from your dish.
8. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds sweetness and hydration, making it an ideal pairing for summer meals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure a delicious outcome.

• Using canned corn only: While canned corn is convenient, fresh corn enhances flavor and texture. Opt for fresh corn when in season for the best results.
• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to properly season each layer of the salad can lead to blandness. Be generous with salt and pepper, especially in the dressing.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions closely and aim for al dente for the perfect bite.
• Not letting the flavors meld: Serving immediately may not allow flavors to mingle. Letting the salad sit for at least 30 minutes enhances the taste significantly.
• Ignoring garnishes: Skipping fresh herbs or cheese can diminish visual appeal and flavor. Always garnish with cilantro or cotija for added freshness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

• Freezing is not recommended as it may affect texture upon thawing.
• If necessary, freeze without dressing and consume within 1 month.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place salad in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer portions to a microwave-safe dish. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring until heated thoroughly.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth to a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about this recipe, we’ve got answers!

What is Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad combines traditional elote flavors with pasta, making it a delightful side or main dish packed with fresh ingredients.

Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?

Yes! Frozen corn is a great alternative if fresh corn isn’t available. Just thaw it before mixing into the salad.

How spicy is this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe?

The spice level depends on the jalapenos used. For milder flavor, remove all seeds and membranes before adding them to your salad.

How should I serve this salad?

This salad is perfect as a side dish at barbecues or picnics. It can also serve as a light main course during hot summer days.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or substitute different cheeses based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various ingredients to suit your taste. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner, this salad will surely impress everyone at the table!