Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delightful fusion of flavors, bringing the vibrant essence of elote into a refreshing dish. With its creamy dressing, zesty lime, and spicy chili, it’s perfect for summer gatherings like barbecues and picnics. Whether you’re serving it as a side or making it the star of the meal, this salad is sure to impress with its bold taste and colorful presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this delicious salad. Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute potluck plans.
• Bold Flavors: The combination of charred corn, creamy dressing, and spices creates an explosion of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side or top it with grilled chicken or shrimp for a hearty main course that everyone will enjoy.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is ideal for gatherings! Its unique flavors make it stand out at any gathering or party.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to adjust the spice level or add additional veggies based on your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the necessary tools before starting. This will save you time and make the cooking process enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta efficiently without crowding.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining all ingredients smoothly, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
• Whisk: A must-have for creating a perfectly smooth dressing without lumps.

Ingredients

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad takes all the bold flavors of elote—charred corn, creamy dressing, lime, chili, and cotija cheese—and tosses them with pasta for the ultimate summer side. Creamy, tangy, spicy, and full of texture, it’s perfect for parties, potlucks, or as a main dish with protein on top.

For the Salad Base

• 8 oz pasta (elbow, rotini, or shells)
• 3 cups corn kernels (grilled, roasted, or canned)

For the Creamy Dressing

• ½ cup mayo
• ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 teaspoon lime zest
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (or Tajín)
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt & pepper to taste

For Added Flavor

• ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta)
• ⅓ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• ¼ cup diced red onion
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely diced (optional for heat)

For Garnish

• Extra lime wedges
• Extra chili powder

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
1. Drain the pasta in a colander.
2. Rinse with cold water to stop cooking and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients until smooth.
1. Add mayo, sour cream (or yogurt), lime juice, lime zest, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix well until no lumps remain.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine cooked pasta with corn kernels.
2. Add crumbled cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, diced red onion, and jalapeño (if using).

Step 4: Toss & Chill

Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta mixture.
1. Gently toss everything together until fully coated in dressing.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Before serving:
1. Garnish with extra cotija cheese and cilantro.
2. Sprinkle additional chili powder on top if desired.
3. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes for enhanced flavor development.

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Serving Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is all about enhancing its vibrant flavors and textures. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delicious dish.

As a Standalone Meal

• This pasta salad can be enjoyed on its own as a light lunch or dinner. The combination of pasta, corn, and creamy dressing makes it filling and satisfying.

At Barbecues and Picnics

• Bring this salad to your next barbecue or picnic. Its refreshing taste pairs well with grilled meats and helps balance spicy dishes.

As a Side Dish for Tacos

• Serve alongside your favorite tacos for a complete Mexican-inspired meal. The flavors complement each other wonderfully, adding variety to your table.

With Grilled Chicken or Shrimp

• Top the salad with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein. This makes the dish more substantial and perfect for a family dinner.

In Meal Prep Containers

• Portion the salad into meal prep containers for easy lunches throughout the week. It keeps well in the fridge, making it a convenient option.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Perfecting your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is simple with a few helpful tips to elevate the flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn adds sweetness and crunch compared to canned corn. If possible, grill or roast it for extra flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving! Adjust lime juice, salt, or chili powder to suit your preference for tanginess and spice.
• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors meld together beautifully, enhancing taste.
• Add Texture: Consider adding diced bell peppers or sliced radishes for extra crunch. These additions elevate the overall texture of the dish.
• Customize Your Dressing: Experiment with different spices in the dressing. Adding smoked paprika or cumin can give an exciting twist to traditional flavors.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t skip on garnishing with extra cotija cheese, cilantro, or lime wedges before serving. It enhances presentation and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This delightful pasta salad pairs well with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers of zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms add a smoky flavor that matches perfectly.
2. Chips and Guacamole: Crunchy tortilla chips served with creamy guacamole provide an irresistible combination of textures.
3. Black Bean Salsa: A zesty black bean salsa brings additional protein and freshness to your meal while enhancing flavor profiles.
4. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice mixed with cilantro and lime juice complements the pasta salad’s tangy notes beautifully.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy offer a lovely contrast in sweetness that balances the spiciness of the salad.
6. Mexican Street Corn on the Cob: For true elote lovers, serve classic street corn as a side dish; it’s a great way to highlight similar flavors found in the pasta salad.
7. Avocado Salad: A light avocado salad dressed with lemon juice adds creaminess while keeping things fresh and healthy.
8. Spanish Rice: Flavorful Spanish rice can enhance this dish while still keeping within Mexican cuisine themes, creating a well-rounded meal experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, avoiding common mistakes will help you achieve the best flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Using overcooked pasta: Overcooked pasta can turn mushy and ruin the salad’s texture. Always follow cooking times on the package and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season your dressing will lead to bland flavors. Make sure to taste and adjust salt, pepper, and lime juice in your dressing before mixing it with the pasta.

• Not chilling before serving: Serving right after mixing can result in a less flavorful dish. Allowing the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavors as they meld together.

• Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using old or wilted herbs like cilantro can negatively affect taste. Always use fresh ingredients for optimal flavor and presentation.

• Forgetting garnishes: Skipping garnishes can make your salad look less appealing. Adding extra cotija cheese, cilantro, or lime wedges adds both visual appeal and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

• It is not recommended to freeze this salad as it may alter the texture of the ingredients.
• If you must freeze, store in a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread salad on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed, being careful not to overheat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad:

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen corn works well! Just cook it according to package instructions before adding it to your salad.

How can I customize my Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Feel free to add proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal. You can also swap out cotija cheese for feta if preferred.

What other ingredients can I add?

Consider including bell peppers or avocado for added flavor and texture. These ingredients complement the main flavors beautifully.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad stays fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep as it holds up well in the fridge and makes for a quick lunch or side dish throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant and tasty dish that brings together delightful flavors reminiscent of elote. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various proteins or vegetables based on your preferences. Whether served at gatherings or enjoyed as a main dish, this salad is sure to impress. Give it a try today!

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Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines the classic flavors of elote with pasta for a delightful summer meal. This salad features sweet corn, a creamy dressing, zesty lime, and a kick of chili that will tantalize your taste buds. Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or as a stand-alone meal, it’s not only quick to prepare but also customizable to suit your preferences. Whether served as a side or topped with grilled chicken or shrimp for a hearty main course, this colorful dish is sure to impress your guests with its bold flavors and appealing presentation.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz pasta (elbow, rotini, or shells)
• 3 cups corn kernels (grilled, roasted, or canned)
• ½ cup mayo
• ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese
• Fresh cilantro, diced red onion, jalapeño (optional)

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water; set aside.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayo, sour cream (or yogurt), lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta with corn kernels, cotija cheese, cilantro, red onion, and jalapeño.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until well-coated. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
5. Garnish with additional cotija cheese and cilantro before serving. Chill for 30 minutes for enhanced flavor.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 20mg