Perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad – homefoodkitchen
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad brings the vibrant and delightful flavors of traditional elote into a refreshing and hearty pasta dish. This salad captures the essence of summer with sweet corn, zesty lime, and creamy dressing. It’s perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or a light dinner at home.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Why You’ll Love This Perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
This dish offers a delicious blend of textures and flavors that truly stand out. Creamy and savory, with a hint of spice, the Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delightful version of the classic street food. Plus, it’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and can be served warm or chilled.
How to Make Perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or penne
- 3 cups sweet corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional)
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro leaves
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- Juice from 1 lime
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni or penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Cook the Corn: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sweet corn and jalapeño pepper (if using). Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the corn is slightly charred and tender. Remove from heat.
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Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed corn, chopped cilantro, and crumbled cotija cheese. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently until everything is well coated.
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lime juice as desired.
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Chill (Optional): For the best flavor, let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Serve this pasta salad chilled or at room temperature as a side dish or a main course. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, tacos, or as part of a larger buffet spread. Garnish with additional cilantro or cotija cheese for an extra pop of flavor.
How to Store Perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days. If the salad appears dry upon reheating, you can mix in a little extra mayonnaise or a splash of lime juice to restore its creaminess.
Tips to Make Perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Perfect
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn on the cob adds the best flavor, but frozen corn works perfectly in this recipe as well.
- Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, omit the jalapeño or use less. For more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or more chopped jalapeño.
- Mix Up the Cheese: If cotija cheese is unavailable, feta makes a tasty substitute.
Flavor Variations
Feel free to customize your pasta salad by adding your favorite ingredients:
- Protein: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even turkey bacon for a heartier salad.
- Veggies: Mix in diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or avocado for more freshness and crunch.
- Beans: For extra nutrition, toss in some black beans or chickpeas.
Pro Tips for Success
- Pasta Cooking Time: Do not overcook the pasta. An al dente texture helps maintain the salad’s structure when mixed with other ingredients.
- Timing: Prepare the salad ahead of time to allow the flavors to meld together for a more delicious result.
- Dress Just Before Serving: If making this salad in advance, consider adding the dressing right before serving to keep the pasta from becoming mushy.
FAQs About Perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
1. Can I use different pasta shapes?
Yes, this salad works well with various pasta shapes like fusilli, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta. Choose your favorite!
2. Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It’s ideal for meal prep since it holds up well in the fridge for a few days. Just be mindful of adding fresh toppings right before serving.
3. Can I make this salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan alternative and replace cotija cheese with a vegan cheese option or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Final Thoughts
Perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleaser that embodies the lively flavors of Mexican street food. Its combination of sweet corn, zesty lime, and creamy dressing creates an irresistible dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a quiet family dinner, this pasta salad is sure to be a hit. Enjoy your culinary adventure with every delightful bite!
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni or penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sweet corn and jalapeño pepper (if using). Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the corn is slightly charred and tender. Remove from heat.
- In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed corn, chopped cilantro, and crumbled cotija cheese. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently until everything is well coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lime juice as desired.
- For the best flavor, let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.