Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe combines vibrant flavors and textures, making it an ideal dish for any gathering. With the delightful crunch of fresh corn, the kick of jalapenos, and the creaminess of a chili lime dressing, this pasta salad is perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or as a side for your weeknight dinner. It’s not just quick to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser that will make you the star of any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this salad is perfect for busy days when you need a delicious dish fast.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of roasted corn, jalapenos, and a creamy dressing offers a taste explosion that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: This pasta salad pairs wonderfully with various main courses or can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and wholesome ingredients, it’s a nutritious option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer jalapenos according to your preference.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad efficiently, gather your essential kitchen tools and prepare your workspace.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Sharp knife
• Grill or stovetop

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly and efficiently.
• Skillet: Great for cooking corn to bring out its natural sweetness through caramelization.
• Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining all ingredients without mess.

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 or farfalle)
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 3 tablespoons sour cream (or Mexican crema)
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon lime zest (from one lime – 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)

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 before cutting off kernels.
Cook in a Skillet: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil (or butter) in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cut kernels off 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. Season a large pot of water with salt and bring it to boil.
2. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
3. Drain pasta and transfer it to a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add cooked corn into the same bowl with pasta.

Step 4: Make Dressing

In a small bowl:
1. Whisk together mayo, sour cream, chili powder, lime juice, lime zest (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 5: Assemble Salad

Drizzle dressing over corn and pasta; toss until evenly coated. Add jalapenos, onion, and cilantro; stir well. Garnish with extra cilantro if desired. Taste your elote corn pasta salad for seasoning adjustments if necessary.

Enjoy your delicious Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for a refreshing side for dinner, this salad is sure to please.

As a Standalone Dish

• Enjoy it chilled as a light lunch on hot summer days.
• Serve it at picnics, where its flavors shine in the sun.

As a Side Dish

• Pair it with grilled meats like chicken or steak for a perfect barbecue complement.
• Serve it alongside tacos or burritos to enhance your Mexican-themed meal.

Garnished with Extra Toppings

• Sprinkle additional cotija cheese on top for an extra savory kick.
• Add more cilantro for freshness and color.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

To make your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad truly stand out, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and ripe tomatoes will elevate the flavor profile of your salad.
• Mix Dressings Ahead of Time: Preparing the dressing in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Customize Spice Level: Adjust the quantity of jalapenos based on your preference for heat.
• Let It Chill: Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge for at least an hour intensifies its taste.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add black beans or avocado for extra texture and nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

Pairing side dishes with this delightful pasta salad can create a balanced meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Tender chicken marinated in spices complements the salad well.
2. Black Bean Tacos: These provide a hearty option that works perfectly with the fresh flavors of the salad.
3. Mexican Grilled Shrimp: Lightly seasoned shrimp adds protein and pairs beautifully with corn flavors.
4. Guacamole and Chips: Creamy guacamole brings richness that balances the tangy salad.
5. Cilantro Lime Rice: This flavorful rice dish mirrors the lime notes in your pasta salad.
6. Roasted Vegetable Medley: Seasonal vegetables roasted with olive oil enhance the vibrant colors and tastes of your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can impact the overall flavor and texture. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Using raw corn – Always cook your corn before adding it to the salad for a richer flavor and better texture.
• Overcooking the pasta – Make sure to cook the pasta until al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and ruin the salad’s structure.
• Skipping seasoning – Don’t forget to season both the corn and pasta. Salt enhances flavors, so be generous but taste as you go.
• Not chilling the salad – Letting your salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Ignoring ingredient proportions – Stick to the recommended ingredient amounts; too much dressing can make your salad soggy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Make sure it is completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

• Freezing is not recommended due to mayonnaise and sour cream separation.
• If necessary, freeze without dressing; consume within 2 months.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave – Use a microwave-safe dish, heat in short intervals, stirring between, until warm.
• Stovetop – Warm gently over low heat with a splash of water or extra lime juice.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use canned or frozen corn?

Yes! Canned or frozen corn works well if fresh corn is not available. Just drain and rinse canned corn before using.

How can I customize my Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe?

You can add ingredients like black beans, diced bell peppers, or avocado for extra flavor and nutrition.

What type of pasta is best for this recipe?

Short pasta shapes like fusilli or farfalle work best as they hold dressing well and combine nicely with other ingredients.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It keeps well in the refrigerator and is great for lunches throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant dish that encapsulates summer flavors. Its creamy chili lime dressing complements fresh ingredients perfectly. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins! Enjoy making this delightful recipe for gatherings or weeknight dinners.