Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe is a vibrant and delicious dish that combines the sweetness of fresh corn with zesty flavors, making it perfect for summer gatherings or casual weeknight dinners. Its creamy chili lime dressing adds a delightful twist, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it an easy option for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a light meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of sweet corn, spicy jalapeños, and tangy lime creates a taste explosion in every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side at barbecues or enjoy it as a main dish. It’s great for any occasion!
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to adjust the spice level or add extra veggies to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This pasta salad keeps well in the fridge, making it ideal for lunch throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe, you’ll need some essential tools to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet or grill
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Necessary for boiling pasta; it ensures even cooking.
• Skillet or grill: Provides options for cooking corn, enhancing its flavor with charred notes.
• Sharp knife: Essential for easily cutting corn off the cob without wasting any kernels.
• Mixing bowl: Allows you to combine all ingredients thoroughly for a uniform salad.

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 Salad

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or melted butter
• 6 ears corn (husked – 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)
• 2 medium jalapeno (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 the Dressing

• 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

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Corn

You have two options for cooking your corn:
1. Grill Corn:
– Preheat your gas grill to 400 degrees F.
– Peel back the husks and remove silk from each ear of corn.
– Brush with vegetable 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.

1. Cook in a Skillet:
2. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Remove corn kernels from the cob using a sharp knife.
4. Add kernels to the skillet and cook for 8-10 minutes until slightly caramelized.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While your corn cools:
– Fill a large pot with water and add a generous amount of salt. Bring it to a boil.
– Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
– Drain pasta and transfer it to a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked corn into the same 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.
– Adjust seasonings as necessary based on taste preference.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

Drizzle dressing over the corn and pasta mixture:
– Toss everything together until evenly coated.
– Stir in jalapeños, red onion, and cilantro gently.
– Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with additional cilantro 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, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

As a Main Dish

• Enjoy it chilled as a light main course, perfect for warm summer days.

With Grilled Proteins

• Pair with grilled chicken or shrimp for a hearty meal that complements the salad’s flavors.

At Potlucks and BBQs

• This pasta salad is ideal for sharing at potlucks or barbecues, bringing vibrant color and flavor to any spread.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside tacos or burritos to add a refreshing component to your Mexican feast.

In Individual Bowls

• For stylish presentation, serve in individual bowls garnished with extra cilantro and cotija cheese.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

To ensure your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh corn: Fresh corn adds sweetness and crunch; if using frozen or canned, drain well before adding.

• Adjust the spice level: For more heat, include diced jalapenos or even add some hot sauce to the dressing.

• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavors as they meld together.

• Experiment with cheeses: While cotija is traditional, feel free to use feta or queso fresco for different flavor profiles.

• Add more veggies: Consider incorporating bell peppers or black beans for added texture and nutrients.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

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

1. Grilled Chicken Tacos: Flavorful tacos filled with marinated grilled chicken enhance the fiesta vibe.

2. Spicy Black Bean Soup: A hearty soup made with spices and black beans balances the freshness of the pasta salad.

3. Guacamole and Chips: Creamy guacamole served with crispy tortilla chips provides a delightful crunch.

4. Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition while complementing the salad’s flavors.

5. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with cilantro and lime makes for a simple yet satisfying side.

6. Quesadillas: Cheese-filled quesadillas are easy to make and pair perfectly with this refreshing pasta dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad can be easy, but certain mistakes can hinder the flavors you’re aiming for.

• Using Frozen Corn: While frozen corn is convenient, it may not have the same sweetness and texture as fresh corn. If possible, use fresh corn for the best results.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta too long can lead to mushiness. Always follow package instructions and aim for al dente for the best texture in your salad.
• Skipping Seasoning: Forgetting to season the salad properly can leave it bland. Be sure to taste and adjust seasonings, especially when adding cotija cheese which has its own saltiness.
• Neglecting the Dressing: Not mixing enough dressing can make your salad dry. Ensure every component is coated well for that creamy and zesty flavor.
• Omitting Fresh Herbs: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor. Don’t skip this ingredient; it enhances the overall taste of your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

• Not recommended for freezing as pasta can become mushy when thawed.
• If you must, freeze without dressing and add it fresh when serving.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat covered for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat over low heat with a splash of water or lime juice to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this delicious salad.

Can I make the Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and add fresh herbs just before serving.

What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

The best pasta types include fusilli or farfalle (bowtie pasta) as they hold onto the dressing well.

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

Feel free to add ingredients like black beans, avocado, or diced tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition!

Is this salad gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta instead of regular pasta.

Can I use canned corn instead of fresh corn?

Yes, canned corn works in a pinch! Just drain and rinse before adding it to your salad.

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant dish filled with fresh flavors that is perfect for summer gatherings or any meal. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite ingredients. Try this recipe today; it’s sure to become a family favorite!