When you’re craving a vibrant and satisfying dish that combines the beloved flavors of Mexican street corn with the heartiness of pasta, look no further than Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad. This delightful recipe not only makes for a perfect side dish for barbecues or picnics but also stands strong on its own for a light lunch or dinner. Featuring fresh corn, creamy dressing, zesty lime, and crumbled cotija cheese, it’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. You’ll appreciate the simplicity of this dish that packs a punch of flavor and celebrates the essence of summer in every bite.
Why We Love This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe
This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a celebration of fresh ingredients, vibrant colors, and bold flavors. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for anyone who wants to whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The sweetness of the corn, paired with the tangy lime and creamy textures from the mayonnaise and sour cream, creates a delightful balance. Plus, it’s versatile! You can serve it warm or cold, making it perfect for any occasion, whether you’re throwing a summer barbecue or hosting a cozy indoor gathering. It’s also an excellent way to sneak in vegetables and get your family excited about healthy eating. With the addition of cherry tomatoes and cilantro, this salad not only tastes great but looks amazing, adding a pop of color to your plate.
Ingredients about Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
To craft this delicious Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
These ingredients come together beautifully, marrying the freshness of summer vegetables with the hearty texture of pasta.
How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Directions
Making Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a straightforward process. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. You want to ensure that the water is flavorful since it will help season the pasta as it cooks. Once the water is boiling, add the elbow macaroni. Cook according to the package instructions until the pasta is al dente. This usually means a treatment of around eight to ten minutes, but it’s always a good idea to check your specific package for the best timing. After cooking, drain the pasta and quickly rinse it under cold running water. This step helps cool the pasta and stop the cooking process, ensuring it remains firm when mixed with your ingredients later.
If you have access to fresh corn, grilling it adds a wonderful charred flavor. Simply grill the corn until it’s slightly charred, then slice the kernels off the cob. If you’re using frozen or canned corn, prepare it as directed on the packaging. The objective is to have your corn ready and mixed into the salad without any excessive moisture.
While the pasta is cooling and the corn is ready, you can easily prepare your dressing. In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture will not only add creaminess to your salad but also infuse it with the tangy flavors that are characteristic of Mexican street corn.
Now, in a large mixing bowl, combine your cooled pasta with the corn, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, chopped cilantro, and crumbled cotija cheese. You can let your creativity flow here—feel free to adjust the quantities of veggies and cheese according to your preferences.
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss everything gently to ensure that all ingredients are evenly coated. The vibrant colors of the corn, tomatoes, and cilantro will make this dish visually appealing, and you’ll find yourself more than eager to dig in.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Allow it to chill for at least 30 minutes. This resting period helps the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing the dish’s overall taste. You’ll be surprised at how the salad transforms as it cools.
When it’s time to serve, give the salad a little toss, and you’re ready. For an extra touch, you can garnish it with more lime juice and a sprinkle of cilantro, making it look and taste even better.
How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Serving Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a breeze, making it a great choice for gatherings. You can present it in a large bowl to allow guests to help themselves or portion it out onto individual plates for a more refined approach. This salad can be served chilled, which contrasts wonderfully with warm grilled meats at a barbecue, or you could enjoy it at room temperature if you’ve prepared it ahead of time.
Consider pairing it with dishes like grilled chicken, steak tacos, or burgers to create a satisfying meal. Each bite of creamy pasta salad complements the flavors of grilled dishes beautifully. On hot summer days, you may even find yourself craving a simple bowl of this salad alongside a refreshing drink, like lemonade or iced tea.
For added flair, sprinkle some extra cotija cheese on top just before serving for an impressive presentation. If you have any leftover salad, it makes for a fantastic lunch the next day, as the flavors will continue to develop.
Expert Tips: Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
To ensure your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad turns out perfectly, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality cheeses for the best flavor. When possible, use fresh corn; if not, make sure your frozen or canned corn is of good quality.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keeping your pasta firm is essential. You want it al dente, so keep a close watch while it cooks.
- Allow Chilling Time: Don’t skip the refrigerator chilling step. This allows the flavors to marry beautifully and enhances your overall salad experience.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: The lime juice and chili powder can be adjusted according to your taste. Don’t be afraid to make it your own!
- Make Ahead: This salad is excellent to prepare a day in advance. Just make sure to give it a quick toss before serving, as ingredients can settle.
How to Store Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Storing Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is straightforward. Keep any leftovers in an airtight container within your fridge. The salad can be safely stored for up to three days. However, due to the nature of the dressing, the pasta may absorb moisture and flavors over time.
If you notice the salad becoming too dry upon reheating, simply add a splash of lime juice or a dollop of sour cream to refresh it. Avoid freezing this salad, as the creamy dressing will separate and affect the overall texture when thawed.
Variation of Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
While the traditional recipe is delicious, feel free to experiment with your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad! Here are a few exciting variations to consider:
- Add Protein: Incorporate grilled shrimp, chicken, or chickpeas to transform this dish into a main course.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy heat, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy twist.
- Veggie Variety: Include other vegetables such as bell peppers or cucumber for added crunch and flavor.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with non-dairy versions if you’re aiming for a dairy-free salad.
- Pasta Combo: Try different pasta shapes, such as fusilli or penne, for a fun twist on the classic.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad? Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that blends the classic flavors of Mexican street corn with pasta. It includes ingredients like corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cotija cheese, and a zesty dressing for a refreshing side or main dish.
How long does Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad last in the fridge? When stored properly in an airtight container, Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad can last up to three days in the refrigerator. However, consider consuming it within the first two days for the best texture and flavor.
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad a day in advance. Just give it a toss before serving to reincorporate the dressing and ingredients after chilling.
What are some good pairings for this salad? This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, tacos, or as a standalone dish for a nice lunch. It’s perfect for summer barbecues or potlucks!
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Pasta and Fresh Produce
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned) Grilled corn adds extra flavor.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
Dressing and Flavorings
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons lime juice Freshly squeezed for best flavor.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- to taste Salt and pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, around 8 to 10 minutes.
- Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold running water to stop the cooking process.
- If using fresh corn, grill it until slightly charred and then slice off the kernels. If using frozen or canned corn, prepare it as directed.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper to prepare the dressing.
Mixing
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and cotija cheese.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
Chilling
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Serving
- Toss the salad before serving. Garnish with extra lime juice and cilantro if desired.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!