Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad -

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Introduction

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is the perfect dish for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, craving a quick weeknight meal, or looking to impress guests with a flavorful side, this recipe delivers with its delightful mix of zesty flavors and creamy textures. Bursting with corn, pasta, and spices, this salad brings the taste of Mexican Street Corn to your table in a fun, creative way that is sure to make it a crowd-pleaser.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

For this delicious recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Pasta – 3 cups of your favorite pasta, such as elbow or bowtie.
Corn – 4 cups of grilled or canned corn kernels.
Mayonnaise – 1/2 cup for a creamy base.
Sour cream – 1/4 cup to enhance the creamy richness.
Cotija cheese – 1/2 cup of crumbly, salty cheese for an authentic touch.
Cilantro – 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro for freshness.
Lime juice – 2 tablespoons for tangy acidity.
Chili powder – 1 teaspoon for a kick of spice.
Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon for depth of flavor.
Salt – 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste.
Black pepper – 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste.

Prep Time

The preparation for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is incredibly simple. For this recipe, prepare all your ingredients in approximately 15 minutes. From cooking the pasta to mixing the creamy dressing and cutting the fresh ingredients, you can have everything ready in no time.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: Cooking the pasta and ensuring it al dente takes around 10 minutes. If you’re grilling the corn fresh, it will add an additional 5 minutes.
Total Time: Including both prep and cook time, you can whip this up in 25 minutes.
Yield: This recipe serves approximately 6 servings, making it great for a group or leftovers for the next day.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

– Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
– Add the pasta and cook it until al dente, following the package instructions for timing.
– Once done, drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

– Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
– Add the corn kernels to the pan and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are lightly charred.
– Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

– In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika until well combined.
– Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Vegetables

– Add the cooked and cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing.
– Stir in the charred corn, diced red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño (if using). Mix well to ensure everything is coated evenly in the dressing.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

– Crumble cotija cheese over the pasta salad and gently mix it in.
– Garnish with additional cilantro and a sprinkle of chili powder, if desired.
– Serve immediately or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Notes

Note 1: Adjust the Heat

– If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of jalapeño or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing.

Note 2: Substitutes for Cotija Cheese

– If cotija cheese is unavailable, feta cheese or grated parmesan can be used as a substitute.

Note 3: Make-Ahead Option

– You can prepare this dish ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just mix in the cheese and garnishes right before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Note 4: Alternative Cooking Method for Corn

– If you don’t have a skillet or grill pan, you can roast the corn in the oven or use canned fire-roasted corn for convenience.

Note 5: Storage

– Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving again to redistribute the dressing.
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Cook Techniques

Grilling the Corn

Grill the fresh corn on the cob over medium heat until slightly charred. This method enhances the flavor and adds a smoky touch to the salad. Rotate the corn frequently for even charring.

Chilling the Ingredients

Allow the cooked pasta to cool completely before tossing it with the dressing and other ingredients. This helps the flavors blend beautifully while retaining the ideal texture.

Balancing the Dressing

Mix mayo, sour cream, lime juice, and spices to create a creamy, tangy dressing. Adjust the lime juice and spices to meet your preferred flavor balance.

Tossing the Salad

Gently toss the pasta, corn, cheese, and other components together to avoid breaking the pasta while ensuring an even coating of dressing.

Serving Fresh

Prepare and serve the salad fresh to enjoy its creamy dressing and crisp corn flavor at their best. Though you can refrigerate it for a bit, serving promptly is ideal for the taste and texture.

FAQ

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn?

Yes, frozen corn can be used if fresh corn is unavailable. Thaw and lightly sauté or grill the frozen corn to bring out its natural sweetness and enhance its flavor.

Can I make the salad ahead of time?

Although the salad is best served fresh, you can prepare it a day in advance. If doing so, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and add fresh lime juice just before serving.

What type of pasta works best for this salad?

Short pasta varieties like penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni work well as they hold onto the dressing and other ingredients more effectively.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version. Be sure to check other ingredients like spices for any hidden gluten as well.

What cheese is best for this recipe?

Cotija cheese is traditionally used for Mexican street corn; however, you can substitute it with feta cheese if needed. Both provide a tangy, crumbly texture that complements the dish.

Conclusion

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. Its combination of zesty ingredients and creamy textures makes it a standout side dish or even a light main course. This recipe is a fantastic way to bring the flavors of Mexican street food to your table, offering a refreshing twist on traditional pasta salads. It’s easy to make, delicious, and will quickly become a favorite for gatherings or everyday meals.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Mexican Street Corn Tacos

Try adding the Mexican street corn topping to soft corn tortillas for a quick and satisfying taco recipe. Pair with shredded lettuce and a splash of lime for extra zest.