Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe is a delightful combination of fresh summer corn, spicy jalapenos, and tangy lime. It’s not only vibrant in flavor but also incredibly easy to make, making it a fantastic choice for potlucks, barbecues, or any summer gathering. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser that showcases the essence of Mexican street corn in a refreshing pasta form.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad can be prepared in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of sweet corn, spicy jalapenos, and creamy dressing creates an explosion of taste in every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side dish at BBQs or as a light main course; it fits any occasion beautifully.
• Fresh Ingredients: Made with seasonal produce and simple pantry staples, it’s both wholesome and satisfying.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, this pasta salad will impress your guests and family alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before getting started with the recipe, ensure you have the right tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Sharp knife
• Large bowl
• Whisk
• Grill or skillet

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly until al dente.
• Sharp knife: Makes cutting corn from the cob easy and safe.
• Whisk: Helps blend the dressing ingredients smoothly for even flavor distribution.

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!

For the Salad

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or melted butter
• 6 ears corn (husk removed – approximately 4 ½ to 5 cups of corn kernels or frozen/canned corn)
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 8 oz. dry uncooked pasta (such as fusilli or farfalle)
• 2 medium jalapeno (seeded and sliced/chopped)
• ½ cup red onion (chopped finely)
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro (chopped – more for garnish)
• ½ cup cotija cheese (crumbled)

For the Dressing

• 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

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Corn

You have two options for cooking the corn:
1. Grill Corn: Preheat your gas grill to 400 degrees F. Peel back the husks from the corn to remove silk. Brush them with oil on all sides and place on the grill. Cook for about 15-20 minutes until lightly charred, turning every 5 minutes. After cooling slightly, cut kernels off the cob using a sharp knife.
2. Cook in a Skillet: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil (or butter) in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove kernels from the cob using a sharp knife and transfer them to the skillet. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until they are slightly caramelized and charred in spots.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While your corn cools down, season a large pot of water with plenty of salt and bring it to a boil. Add your pasta to the pot and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside before transferring it to a large bowl.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add your now-cooked corn into the same bowl with pasta.

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, chili powder, lime juice, lime zest (if using), salt, and pepper. Taste for seasoning adjustments if needed—remember that cotija cheese adds some saltiness.

Step 5: Assemble Your Salad

Drizzle your dressing over both corn and pasta in the large bowl. Toss everything gently until evenly coated. Then add jalapenos, red onion, and cilantro; stir well to combine all ingredients effectively. Garnish with extra chopped cilantro if desired before serving.

Enjoy your refreshing Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also versatile in how it can be served. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a family dinner, here are some great serving suggestions.

As a Side Dish

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

As a Main Course

• Add shredded rotisserie chicken for a hearty meal.
• Toss in black beans or chickpeas for an extra protein boost.

At Potlucks or Picnics

• This dish is perfect for sharing; serve it in a large bowl for easy scooping.
• Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges for an attractive presentation.

With Chips

• Serve with tortilla chips on the side for added crunch.
• Use the salad as a dip for your favorite corn chips.

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 Corn: Freshly grilled corn adds the best flavor and texture compared to canned or frozen options.
• Customize Your Heat: Adjust the amount of jalapenos based on your spice tolerance. Remove seeds for less heat.
• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill enhances the flavors and makes it more refreshing.
• Add More Cheese: For an extra creamy texture, increase the cotija cheese amount in your salad.
• Experiment with Herbs: Try adding fresh mint or basil alongside cilantro for unique flavor twists.
• Make It Ahead of Time: Prepare the salad a few hours in advance to let the flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

This pasta salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Tender chicken marinated in spices, grilled to perfection, complements the salad nicely.
2. Black Bean Tacos: Flavorful and filling, these tacos add a nice contrast of textures and flavors.
3. Avocado Salsa: A fresh salsa made from ripe avocados and tomatoes enhances your meal’s freshness.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized bring depth to your dining experience.
5. Mexican Rice: Flavorful rice cooked with spices creates a hearty addition that pairs well with any dish.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides sweetness and balances out the spicy elements of the pasta salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:

• Skipping fresh ingredients: Using canned corn instead of fresh can dull the flavors. Always opt for fresh corn when possible for the best taste.
• Overcooking pasta: Cooking pasta too long can lead to mushiness. Follow package instructions carefully and aim for al dente.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Not tasting the dressing before mixing can result in a bland salad. Always taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
• Rushing cooling time: Adding hot corn to the salad can wilt other ingredients. Allow the corn to cool completely before combining it with the pasta.
• Ignoring garnish options: Skipping cilantro or cotija cheese can take away from the dish’s authentic flavor. Don’t forget these toppings for a complete experience.

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

• It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as it may alter texture and flavor.
• If you must, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat in a covered dish until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe special?

This salad is unique due to its vibrant flavors from fresh corn, jalapenos, and a creamy chili lime dressing that perfectly complements the pasta.

Can I customize this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add proteins like grilled chicken or black beans for extra heartiness or swap ingredients based on your preferences.

How long does Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad keep?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, this salad lasts up to 3 days, retaining its delicious flavors.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! The Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is ideal for meal prep. It can be made ahead of time and enjoyed throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

The Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe is not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor that everyone will love. This dish is versatile; you can customize it with various ingredients based on your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to try this refreshing summer salad at your next gathering!