Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe is a delightful blend of fresh summer flavors that will elevate any gathering. Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or casual dinners, this dish is quick to prepare and sure to impress your guests. With its creamy chili lime dressing and vibrant ingredients, it’s a standout choice for those looking to enjoy a taste of Mexico.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect last-minute dish.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of sweet corn, spicy jalapenos, and zesty lime creates a vibrant taste explosion.
• Versatile Serving Options: Ideal as a side dish or a main course for vegetarians!
• Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This pasta salad is perfect for gatherings, ensuring everybody goes back for seconds.
• Customizable Ingredients: Easily adjust ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the necessary tools ahead of time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Grill or skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly and avoiding clumps.
• Grill or skillet: Provides options for cooking corn to achieve that charred flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Allows you to combine all ingredients thoroughly without mess.
• Whisk: Useful for creating a smooth and creamy dressing.

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!

For the Pasta Salad

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or melted butter
• 6 ears corn (husks removed – approximately 4 ½ to 5 cups of corn kernels or frozen/canned corn)
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 8 oz. dry uncooked pasta (such as fusilli or farfalle)
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 3 tablespoons sour cream (or Mexican crema)
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon lime zest (optional)
• 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)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Corn

There are two methods to cook the corn:
* Grill Corn: Heat a gas grill to 400 degrees F. Peel back the husks and remove silk. Brush with oil on all sides. Grill for about 15-20 minutes until lightly charred, turning every 5 minutes. Let cool before cutting kernels off the cob with a sharp knife.

• Cook in Skillet: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove kernels from cobs using a sharp knife. Cook in the skillet for 8–10 minutes until slightly caramelized.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the corn cools, fill a large pot with water and season generously with salt. Bring it to a boil and add pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and transfer cooked pasta into a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked corn into the mixing bowl with pasta.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, chili powder, lime juice, lime zest, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

Drizzle dressing over the corn and pasta mixture. Toss well to coat evenly. Incorporate jalapenos, red onion, and cilantro into the salad. Garnish with extra cilantro if desired. Taste again for seasoning adjustments before serving!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether for a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, here are some suggestions to elevate your serving experience.

As a Standalone Dish

• This pasta salad shines as a standalone dish, perfect for warm days or picnics. It’s refreshing, filling, and packed with flavor.

Pair with Grilled Proteins

• Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp for a hearty meal. The smoky flavors complement the salad beautifully.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a low-carb option, serve the salad in crisp lettuce leaves. This adds a crunchy texture and makes it easy to enjoy on the go.

Garnish with Additional Toppings

• Enhance the presentation by garnishing with extra cilantro, lime wedges, or additional cotija cheese. This not only looks appealing but also adds extra flavor.

As Part of a Buffet Spread

• Include this pasta salad in a buffet-style meal. It pairs well with other sides and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at parties or potlucks.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

To make your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh corn and ripe vegetables enhances the flavor significantly. Fresh herbs like cilantro also add brightness.
• Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer less heat, remove the seeds from jalapenos completely. You can also substitute them with milder peppers.
• Make Ahead of Time: Prepare it a few hours in advance. This allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with Cheeses: While cotija is traditional, feel free to try feta or queso fresco for different textures and flavors.
• Add Protein: Incorporate black beans or grilled chicken for added protein and heartiness.
• Use Quality Pasta: Choose high-quality pasta for better texture and taste. Whole wheat pasta can also be used for a healthier option.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

This vibrant pasta salad pairs wonderfully with many side dishes. Here are some great options to complement your meal.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add delicious flavor and color to your plate.
2. Tortilla Chips with Salsa: A crunchy side that offers great texture contrasts while enhancing the Mexican theme.
3. Black Bean Salad: A flavorful bean salad provides additional protein and complements the corn nicely.
4. Cilantro Lime Rice: This fragrant rice dish pairs perfectly with the flavors of the pasta salad for an all-around delightful meal.
5. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds richness that balances out the spiciness of the jalapenos in the pasta salad.
6. Mexican Street Corn on the Cob: For true elote lovers, serving traditional corn on the cob alongside reinforces those beloved flavors!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the seasoning: Many forget to add enough salt and pepper during cooking. Season your corn and pasta well for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long can make it mushy. Always follow the package instructions for al dente texture.
• Not letting the corn cool: Adding hot corn directly to the salad can wilt other ingredients. Allow it to cool before mixing.
• Using low-quality ingredients: The flavor of this dish relies on fresh produce. Opt for fresh corn, quality cheese, and ripe limes for the best results.
• Neglecting the dressing: Some skip tasting their dressing before adding it. Always taste and adjust seasonings to ensure a balanced flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen.
• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.
• Be aware that texture may change after thawing.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the salad in an even layer on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe?

This dish combines traditional street corn flavors with pasta, creating a creamy and spicy salad that’s perfect for gatherings or as a side dish.

How do I make the dressing for my Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, chili powder, lime juice, lime zest, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust seasonings as needed.

Can I customize my Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe?

Absolutely! Add grilled chicken, black beans, or more veggies like bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this salad will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator without losing its deliciousness.

Final Thoughts

The Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is not only vibrant and flavorful but also versatile enough to fit various occasions. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or adapt it based on seasonal produce. Give it a try at your next gathering—you won’t be disappointed!