Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This creamy and tangy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on traditional elote, combining the rich flavors of corn with pasta for a quick, satisfying dish. Perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or a simple weeknight dinner, this salad is not only easy to prepare but also bursts with vibrant flavors. With its creamy dressing and fresh ingredients, it stands out as a refreshing side that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of lime juice, garlic powder, and cotija cheese creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that elevates any meal.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side at barbecues, potlucks, or enjoy it as a main dish during lunch.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh corn and herbs ensures every bite is full of taste and nutrition.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or proteins to make this salad your own.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta and corn efficiently while ensuring even cooking.
• Colander: Helps drain excess water from pasta quickly without losing any delicious pieces.
• Mixing bowls: Allow you to combine ingredients easily without making a mess.
• Whisk: Perfect for creating a smooth dressing that blends all flavors seamlessly.

Ingredients

This creamy and tangy Mexican street corn pasta salad has all the flavors of Mexican elote but in a quick and easy pasta salad.

Ingredients:
– 16 ounces ditalini pasta (or any shape like shells, elbow macaroni, or bow-tie)
– 2 teaspoons olive oil
– 4 medium ears of corn, (husked)
– 4 tablespoons lime juice (about 2 limes)
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1 cup Mexican crema, (or sour cream)
– ¾ teaspoon fine salt, (plus more to taste)
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro, (plus more for topping)
– ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese, (plus more for topping)
– Chile lime seasoning, (like Tajiín, for topping)

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook the pasta to al dente according to package instructions.
* Drain the pasta.
* Toss immediately with olive oil in a large bowl to prevent sticking.
* Allow the pasta to cool on the counter or refrigerate while preparing the corn.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat.
* Add the corn and cook for about 5 minutes until tender and bright yellow.
* Transfer cooked corn to a plate and allow it to cool until it’s comfortable to touch.

Step 3: Cut Corn Kernels

Cut the corn kernels off the cob into a medium bowl.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together:
1. Lime juice
2. Mayonnaise
3. Mexican crema
4. Garlic powder
5. Fine salt
6. Cayenne pepper

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add the mayonnaise sauce along with cooked corn, chopped cilantro, and cotija cheese into the bowl of cooled pasta.
* Toss all ingredients together until well combined.

Step 6: Serve or Refrigerate

Top with additional cilantro, cotija cheese, and Tajín if desired.
* Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to eat.

Enjoy your vibrant Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This delicious Mexican street corn pasta salad is versatile and perfect for various occasions. Whether it’s a potluck, barbecue, or family dinner, here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

As a Side Dish

• Pair this pasta salad with grilled meats like chicken or steak for a refreshing contrast.
• Serve alongside tacos or burritos to complement the flavors of Mexican cuisine.

In a Wrap

• Use lettuce leaves or tortillas to create wraps filled with Mexican street corn pasta salad for a fun handheld option.
• Add sliced avocado or grilled veggies for an extra layer of flavor.

On a Buffet Table

• Display this pasta salad in a large bowl as part of a buffet spread, allowing guests to serve themselves.
• Garnish with extra cilantro and cotija cheese to make it visually appealing.

With Chips

• Serve alongside tortilla chips for a crunchy side that adds texture to the creamy pasta salad.
• Offer salsa or guacamole as additional dipping options.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Making the perfect Mexican street corn pasta salad involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Choose the right pasta shape: Ditalini works well, but feel free to experiment with shells or elbow macaroni for different textures.
• Use fresh corn: Freshly cut kernels bring sweetness and crunch, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to chill helps the flavors meld together beautifully. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and lime juice according to your preference, ensuring a balance of flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

When planning a meal featuring Mexican street corn pasta salad, consider pairing it with these delightful side dishes. They complement the flavors and add variety to your table.

1. Grilled Chicken Tacos: Seasoned grilled chicken served in warm tortillas makes for an excellent main course.
2. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, tomatoes, and cilantro adds protein and fiber.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil and spices provide a tasty contrast.
4. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip enhances any meal; serve with tortilla chips for added crunch.
5. Mexican Rice: Flavored rice cooked with tomatoes and spices pairs well with any Mexican dish.
6. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Keep the theme going by serving traditional elote alongside this pasta salad for double the flavor!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect flavor and texture.

• Ignoring pasta cooking time: Overcooking the pasta can lead to a mushy salad. Always follow package instructions for al dente.
• Skipping the cooling step: If you don’t cool the pasta before mixing, it can become sticky. Allow it to cool on the counter or in the fridge.
• Not seasoning adequately: Under-seasoning can make your salad bland. Taste before serving and adjust salt and lime as needed.
• Using fresh corn incorrectly: If you don’t cook the corn properly, it may be tough. Boil until bright yellow and tender for best results.
• Forgetting toppings: Toppings like cotija cheese and cilantro enhance flavor. Don’t skip them for a complete experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the salad is completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

• It’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to the creamy dressing.
• If you must, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts (30 seconds) until warmed through, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here’s what people often ask about Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad.

Can I use different pasta shapes for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Yes! You can use any shape like shells or elbow macaroni. Just ensure it cooks al dente.

How long does Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad last?

It lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it a day before serving for enhanced flavors. Just wait to add fresh toppings until serving time.

What are some variations of Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Consider adding diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra crunch and spice. Grilled chicken can also be a great addition!

Is there a vegan version of Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

You can substitute mayonnaise and crema with vegan alternatives and use nutritional yeast instead of cotija cheese.

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant dish that combines creamy textures with zesty flavors, making it perfect for any occasion. You can customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting spices according to your taste preferences. Try it today, and enjoy a delightful twist on traditional elote!