Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Name: Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 8 oz short pasta (fusilli or penne); 2 cups fresh corn (grilled or roasted); 1 cup crumbled cotija cheese; 1 cup diced bell peppers (red and yellow); ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro; ½ cup mayonnaise; 3 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice; 1 tsp chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Posted on February 8, 2025

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Have you ever tasted the vibrant fusion of sweet corn and zesty flavors in a dish? Imagine a delightful bowl of Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad bursting with freshness and color. This dish perfectly combines the classic taste of elote with tender pasta, creating an irresistible meal that dances on your palate.

Why You’ll Love This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Versatile Serving Options: Whether served as a main course or as a side dish at barbecues and potlucks, this salad fits seamlessly into any meal. Pair it with grilled meats or serve it at picnics; its versatility makes it suitable for various occasions.

Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables like bell peppers and cilantro alongside whole grains from the pasta, this dish provides a nutritious option without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy guilt-free indulgence while savoring each bite!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pasta: Use your favorite short pasta shape like fusilli or penne; they hold onto the dressing well.
Fresh Corn: Grilled or roasted corn adds sweetness and texture; cut it directly off the cob for best results.
Cotija Cheese: This crumbly cheese brings a salty flavor that complements the sweetness of the corn beautifully.
Bell Peppers: Diced red and yellow bell peppers provide crunch and vibrant color to the salad.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds an aromatic touch; feel free to adjust according to your preference.

For the Dressing:

Mayonnaise: A creamy base for the dressing; consider using Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice enhances flavor with its tangy profile.
Chili Powder: Adds warmth and depth; adjust according to your heat preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Cook the Pasta : Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

Prepare the Corn : While the pasta cooks, grill or roast fresh corn until charred slightly—about 10 minutes on medium heat works well. Allow it to cool before cutting kernels off the cob.

Mix Vegetables : In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta with diced bell peppers and chopped cilantro. Toss everything gently until evenly mixed.

Create the Dressing : In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning if necessary for taste.

Add Dressing & Cheese : Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture along with crumbled cotija cheese. Gently fold everything together until well combined.

Chill & Serve : Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving to allow flavors to meld together. Serve chilled for an incredibly refreshing experience!

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Opting for fresh corn rather than canned elevates flavor significantly; always choose quality ingredients for optimal taste.

Add Heat Gradually: If you’re unsure about spice levels, start with less chili powder in your dressing; you can always add more later if desired.

Toss Lightly but Thoroughly: When mixing pasta with other ingredients, be gentle yet thorough so as not to break up delicate elements like cheese while ensuring even distribution throughout.

Make Ahead of Time: Preparing this salad a few hours in advance allows flavors to deepen beautifully; just cover it tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating.

Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to include other vegetables based on seasonality; options like avocado or cherry tomatoes can add unique flavors!

If you are hosting a barbecue, this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad pairs excellently with spicy shrimp skewers. The heat from the shrimp balances nicely with the coolness of the salad. Marinate your shrimp in chili powder, garlic, and olive oil before grilling them for a delightful twist on classic summer fare.

FAQs

What ingredients do I need for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

To make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, you will need cooked pasta, fresh corn (or canned), mayonnaise, lime juice, cotija cheese, cilantro, and spices like chili powder and cumin.

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes! This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. For optimal flavor, allow it to chill for at least one hour before serving.

Is this dish suitable for vegetarian diets?

Absolutely! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or animal products apart from cheese. You can easily swap out cotija cheese for a plant-based alternative if desired while still enjoying that creamy texture.

How long does leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers of this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure to check for freshness before consuming leftovers.