Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant dish that combines the classic flavors of street corn with pasta for a delightful twist. Perfect for potlucks, summer picnics, or family gatherings, this salad is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor. The combination of cotija cheese, roasted corn, and a creamy dressing makes every bite a delicious experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: The tangy lime dressing combined with spices creates a burst of flavor that will satisfy your taste buds.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a side dish at BBQs or as a main course for lunch. It’s adaptable to any occasion!
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with corn, cheese, and fresh herbs, this salad offers nutrients without compromising on taste.
- Make Ahead: Prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld overnight for an even better taste.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, gather your tools to streamline the process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Whisk
- Serving platter
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling the pasta evenly until al dente.
- Colander: Helps drain the pasta easily without losing any pieces.
- Mixing bowls: Useful for combining ingredients and preparing the creamy dressing.
- Whisk: Ensures all dressing ingredients blend smoothly together.
Ingredients
This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is loaded with corn, cotija cheese, and a deliciously tangy dressing that is the stuff dreams are made of. It’s quick and easy to throw together and is made up of mostly pantry ingredients that you’ve probably already got in your kitchen!
For the Pasta Salad
- 16 oz. rotini pasta
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 4 (10 oz.) bags frozen fire-roasted corn (cooked according to package directions) or 3 (15 oz.) cans of corn, drained
- 1 cup crumbled Cotija or queso fresco cheese
- 1/3 cup freshly chopped cilantro + more for garnish
For the Dressing
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- A couple pinches cayenne pepper
- 3 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 teaspoons lime zest
- Kosher salt
- Fresh cracked pepper
How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. After cooking:
1. Toss with 2 teaspoons olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Set aside to cool to room temperature or place in the fridge for faster cooling.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a medium bowl:
1. Combine sour cream, mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, lime zest, lime juice, and a couple large pinches of salt and pepper.
2. Whisk until smooth.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl:
1. Add cooled pasta.
2. Mix in the cooked corn, Cotija cheese, and chopped cilantro.
Step 4: Dress the Salad
Pour most of the dressing over the pasta mixture:
1. Toss gently until everything is well coated.
Step 5: Serve It Up
Transfer to a serving platter:
1. Drizzle with any remaining dressing.
2. Garnish with additional fresh chopped cilantro for an appealing presentation.
Enjoy your delicious Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad at your next gathering!
How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
As a Side Dish
- This pasta salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken, steak, or fish. The creamy dressing complements the smoky flavors of the grill.
At a Potluck
- Bring this colorful salad to your next gathering! It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser and is easy to transport in a large bowl.
With Tacos
- Serve alongside your favorite taco night spread. The creamy and zesty flavors will balance out spicy tacos perfectly.
As a Light Lunch
- Enjoy it as a refreshing lunch option. Add some extra protein, like grilled shrimp or chicken, to make it more filling.
As a Picnic Treat
- Pack this salad for your next picnic. It holds up well outside and can be served cold or at room temperature.
How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
To achieve the best version of Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, consider these helpful tips.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh corn when in season for an even sweeter taste that enhances the salad’s flavor.
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. A little extra lime juice or salt can make all the difference.
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Chill Before Serving: Allow the pasta salad to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.
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Add Some Heat: If you enjoy spice, consider adding diced jalapeños or extra cayenne pepper to kick up the heat level.
Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Pairing side dishes with Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad can create a delightful meal. Here are some excellent options:
- Grilled Chicken: Lightly seasoned grilled chicken breast complements the creamy salad perfectly.
- Black Bean Tacos: These hearty tacos add protein and flavor that pair well with the pasta salad.
- Guacamole: A rich and creamy guacamole adds another layer of texture and flavor.
- Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies provide a healthy contrast and enhance your meal’s visual appeal.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: This zesty rice dish mirrors flavors in the pasta salad, making for a cohesive meal.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn is an excellent choice that ties in with the corn theme of the pasta salad.
- Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips paired with fresh salsa offer a satisfying crunch alongside your meal.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides a refreshing sweetness to balance out savory dishes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.
- Using the wrong pasta: Opt for rotini or another sturdy pasta. Avoid delicate pastas which may not hold up well in a salad.
- Not cooling the pasta: If you skip cooling the pasta before mixing, it can wilt the vegetables and make the salad soggy. Always let it cool to room temperature first.
- Overdressing the salad: Too much dressing can drown the flavors. Start with a smaller amount and add more as needed for balance.
- Neglecting seasoning: A bland salad can be disappointing. Season each component, especially the dressing, to enhance the overall taste.
- Forgetting to garnish: Presentation matters! Don’t skip the fresh cilantro garnish; it adds flavor and visual appeal.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
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- Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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- Container: Use a glass or plastic container with a tight seal to keep it fresh.
Freezing Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
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- Duration: Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
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- Container: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
Reheating Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 15 minutes, adding extra dressing if needed.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between until warm throughout.
- Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of lime juice for freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad.
What is Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a flavorful dish inspired by elote, featuring rotini pasta, corn, Cotija cheese, and a zesty dressing.
How can I customize my Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?
You can add diced bell peppers, jalapeños for spice, or even avocado for creaminess. Adjust ingredients based on personal preference!
Is Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad healthy?
This salad contains nutritious ingredients like corn and cilantro while being balanced with creamy elements. Portion size matters!
Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Freshly grilled or boiled corn adds an even sweeter flavor that complements this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad perfectly.
How long does it take to prepare this salad?
The total time is just 20 minutes! It’s quick and perfect for gatherings or meal prep.
Final Thoughts
This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it based on seasonal ingredients or personal preferences. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or simply as a delightful side dish at dinner. Try it out and enjoy its comforting flavors!
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brilliantly combines the beloved taste of elote with hearty pasta. This refreshing salad features tender rotini mixed with fire-roasted corn, creamy cotija cheese, and a tangy lime dressing. Ideal for potlucks, summer picnics, or family gatherings, it’s quick to prepare and packed with nutrients. You can enjoy this versatile recipe as a side dish or a light main course. With its colorful presentation and delicious flavors, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next event!
Ingredients
- 16 oz. rotini pasta
- 4 (10 oz.) bags frozen fire-roasted corn (or 3 (15 oz.) cans drained)
- 1 cup crumbled Cotija cheese
- 1/3 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- A couple pinches cayenne pepper
- 3 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 teaspoons lime zest
- Kosher salt
- Fresh cracked pepper
Instructions
- Cook rotini according to package instructions until al dente. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper; let cool.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, lime juice, lime zest, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, fire-roasted corn, Cotija cheese, and cilantro.
- Pour dressing over the pasta mix and toss gently to coat.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature; garnish with additional cilantro.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 305
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 24mg
