Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Introduction
Discover the harmony of Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant dish that elevates your classic pasta salad with Mexican-inspired flavors. This recipe blends the bold and creamy tastes of traditional elote with a comforting pasta base, creating a perfect side dish or standalone meal. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply craving something fresh and flavorful, this salad is bound to be a hit.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Essential ingredients for the recipe
– 12 ounces of pasta (any kind of your choice, but short pasta like rotini works best)
– 2 cups of fresh or frozen corn (roasted or grilled for added flavor)
– ½ cup of mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons of sour cream
– ½ teaspoon of chili powder
– 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice
– ½ cup of crumbled cotija cheese (or feta as a substitute)
– ¼ cup of chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Prep Time
Get ready efficiently
This recipe requires approximately 10 minutes of preparation. It’s an easy and time-saving dish thanks to its simple ingredient list and quick prep process. Cooking the pasta and assembling will feel effortless, especially if you already have grilled or roasted corn on hand.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
All About Timings
Cook Time: Approximately 12 minutes, depending on your pasta’s cooking instructions.
Total Time: Around 22 minutes, making this a short and convenient recipe for any occasion.
Yield: This recipe serves about 6 people, perfect for family meals or gatherings.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until it is al dente. Drain and rinse the pasta with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, minced garlic, ground chili powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly until you achieve a smooth dressing.
Step 3: Roast the Corn
If using fresh corn, grill or roast the corn until lightly charred. Allow the corn to cool slightly, then cut the kernels off the cob. If using frozen corn, ensure it’s thawed, then lightly pan-roast until charred. Set aside.
Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the cooled pasta with the roasted corn, cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and diced jalapeños. Toss gently to combine.
Step 5: Add the Dressing
Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta and corn mixture. Toss well to ensure everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
Taste the salad and adjust seasoning if necessary. Add more lime juice, chili powder, or salt based on your preference.
Step 7: Serve
Garnish with additional cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, and a sprinkle of chili powder if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
Note 1: Pasta Options
Any short pasta shape like bowtie, penne, or rotini can be used for this salad.
Note 2: Cotija Cheese Substitution
If cotija cheese is unavailable, feta cheese is a good substitute.
Note 3: Spice Level Adjustment
Adjust the amount of chili powder and jalapeños based on your spice tolerance.
Note 4: Make-Ahead
This pasta salad can be made ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, but toss it again before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Note 5: Adding Protein
For a heartier dish, consider adding grilled shrimp, chicken, or black beans to the salad.
Cook Techniques
Preparing the Pasta
Cook the pasta to al dente according to the package instructions. Rinse it with cold water after cooking to prevent overcooking and to help it cool down quickly for the salad.
Grilling or Roasting Corn
Grill or roast the corn to achieve a smoky and slightly charred flavor. If you prefer, you can also use frozen or canned corn, but ensure it is well-drained and roasted lightly in a pan for more flavor.
Creating the Creamy Dressing
Mix the dressing ingredients thoroughly in a bowl. Use mayonnaise and a tangy addition like lime juice to create the base. Season with chili powder, garlic, and a touch of cheese for a rich and flavorful taste.
Combining Ingredients
Once the pasta and corn are ready and cooled, combine them with the dressing. Carefully fold everything together to coat all ingredients without breaking the pasta.
Chilling the Salad
Allow the salad to chill for at least 15-20 minutes in the refrigerator before serving. This enhances the flavor and helps the dressing meld with the ingredients.
FAQ
Can I use frozen or canned corn for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen or canned corn if you prefer. Just make sure it’s well-drained and roasted lightly in a pan to enhance its flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the salad is kept cold to maintain freshness.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a few hours in advance. For best results, add any fresh herbs or garnishes right before serving.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Small pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or macaroni work well as they hold the dressing and mix evenly with the other ingredients.
Is there a way to make this salad lighter?
To make this salad lighter, you can substitute Greek yogurt for some or all of the mayonnaise in the dressing. Use less cheese and opt for fresh herbs to boost flavor without adding calories.
Conclusion
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delightful fusion of bold, creamy, and zesty flavors, bringing a taste of vibrant Mexican street food to your table. It’s an ideal dish that works perfectly as a side or a main, balancing the taste buds with its combination of sweet corn, spices, and zippy lime. This recipe is perfect for any occasion and can be easily adjusted to suit individual preferences, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy its incredible flavors.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Grilled Mexican Chicken
Pair your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad with grilled Mexican-style chicken for a delicious and protein-packed meal. The smoky flavors of the grilled chicken complement the creamy and tangy pasta salad beautifully.
Black Bean and Avocado Salad
Add a side of black bean and avocado salad for a burst of freshness and additional textures. It makes for a well-rounded and nutritious pairing.
Shrimp Tacos
Serve the pasta salad alongside shrimp tacos for a flavorful twist on your meal. The combination of tangy salad and seasoned shrimp is exceptionally satisfying.
Spicy Grilled Vegetables
Spice things up by grilling vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and onions with Mexican-inspired seasonings. These bold flavors will enhance the overall meal experience when paired with the pasta salad.
Chipotle Lime Rice
Consider serving your pasta salad with chipotle lime rice for a complementary carb-packed side. The subtle smokiness and hint of lime pair delightfully with the pasta’s creamy texture.
Loaded Nachos
For a fun and indulgent meal idea, serve alongside loaded nachos topped with cheese, jalapeños, pico de gallo, and guacamole. It’s a perfect combination for casual gatherings.
Cilantro Lime Grilled Fish
Complete your meal with cilantro lime grilled fish. The light and citrusy fish harmonizes wonderfully with the creamy flavors of the Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad.
