Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of summer straight to your table. Featuring fresh corn, jalapenos, and a creamy chili lime dressing, it’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or any gathering where delicious food is a must. Ready in just 30 minutes, this pasta salad is not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser that showcases the best of Mexican cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With prep and cook time totaling just 30 minutes, you can whip up this salad in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of sweet corn, spicy jalapenos, and tangy lime creates an explosion of taste in every bite.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a casual weeknight dinner, this pasta salad fits right in.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice level or add ingredients based on your preferences.
• Great for Leftovers: This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, gather the essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta. A spacious pot allows for even cooking.
• Skillet or grill: You can choose between grilling or sautéing the corn for optimal flavor.
• Sharp knife: Necessary for easily cutting corn kernels from the cob.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining all ingredients without making a 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 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 Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Corn

You have two options for cooking the corn:
* Grill Corn: Heat a gas grill to 400 degrees F. Peel back the husks and remove silk. Brush with oil on all sides. Grill for about 15-20 minutes until lightly charred, turning every 5 minutes. Let cool before cutting kernels from cobs.
* Cook in Skillet: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cut kernels off cobs and add to skillet. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until slightly caramelized.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the corn cools, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
1. Add the pasta.
2. Cook until al dente according to package instructions.
3. Drain and transfer pasta to a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked corn into the bowl with pasta.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl:
1. Whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, chili powder, lime juice, lime zest, salt, and pepper.
2. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.

Step 5: Assemble Your Salad

Drizzle dressing over corn and pasta mixture; toss gently until evenly coated.
1. Add jalapenos, red onion, and cilantro.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Garnish with additional cilantro if desired.

Enjoy your flavorful Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delightful and vibrant dish that can be served in various ways. Whether it’s a summer barbecue, a potluck, or a casual dinner at home, this salad is sure to impress. Here are some creative serving suggestions for your pasta salad.

As a Side Dish

• Serve it alongside grilled meats like chicken or steak for a delicious balance of flavors.
• Pair with tacos or burritos to complement the Mexican theme of your meal.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Spoon the pasta salad into large lettuce leaves for a fresh and light alternative.
• This is perfect for a low-carb option while still enjoying all the flavors.

As a Main Course

• Transform it into a main dish by adding shredded rotisserie chicken or black beans.
• This adds protein and makes it filling enough for lunch or dinner.

Garnished with Additional Ingredients

• Top with extra cotija cheese and cilantro just before serving for an added burst of flavor.
• A sprinkle of chili powder can enhance the spice level to taste.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

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

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn will give you the best flavor and texture. If using frozen corn, allow it to thaw completely before adding it.
• Customize Your Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapenos based on your heat preference. For less heat, remove the seeds and membranes.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to include diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for added color and crunch.
• Make Ahead: This pasta salad can be made a day in advance; just add dressing right before serving to keep it fresh.
• Experiment with Dressings: While chili lime is traditional, try adding avocado or chipotle flavors for a unique twist.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

This pasta salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its vibrant flavors. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Grilled Chicken Tacos – Juicy chicken wrapped in warm tortillas makes a perfect pairing with this refreshing salad.
2. Black Bean Quesadillas – These cheesy quesadillas provide protein and richness that balances well with the tangy pasta salad.
3. Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on skewers offer a light appetizer that contrasts nicely with heavier flavors.
4. Spicy Guacamole – Creamy guacamole provides an excellent dip option that enhances the overall experience of your meal.
5. Mexican Rice – Fluffy rice cooked with spices adds another layer of flavor and is a classic side dish for any Mexican feast.
6. Corn on the Cob – Grilled corn brushed with lime butter echoes the ingredients in your pasta salad, creating harmony on the plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, a few common mistakes can impact the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cook the pasta until al dente to ensure it holds its shape and texture in the salad. Following package instructions will help you avoid mushy pasta.
• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using canned corn may seem convenient, but fresh corn adds vibrant flavor. If fresh corn isn’t available, opt for high-quality frozen corn to maintain taste.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Failing to adjust seasoning can make your salad bland. Be sure to taste and tweak the dressing and salad before serving for the best flavor.
• Not Chilling Before Serving: Serving the salad warm can affect its taste and texture. Allow it to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
• Ignoring Garnishes: Skipping garnishes like cilantro or cotija cheese can take away from visual appeal and flavor. These add freshness and a delightful finishing touch.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your pasta salad in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing to avoid sogginess.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

• Freezing is not recommended as it affects texture; however, if necessary:
• Store in a freezer-safe container.
• Use within 1 month for best quality.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place salad in an oven-safe dish covered with foil. Heat for about 15 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through until warm.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil if needed. Stir gently for 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad special?

This recipe combines classic elote flavors with pasta, creating a unique and delicious dish perfect for summer gatherings.

Can I customize the ingredients in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or swap cotija cheese with feta for different flavors.

How long does this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad last?

When stored properly, it will last up to 3 days in the fridge without losing quality.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This pasta salad is great for meal prep, as it keeps well and makes tasty lunches throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor. Its creamy chili lime dressing pairs beautifully with the sweetness of corn and spiciness of jalapenos. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or make it ahead for gatherings. It’s sure to be a hit at any meal!