Introduction

Mexican street corn pasta salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together the best of both worlds – the beloved flavors of elote, or Mexican street corn, and the convenience of a pasta salad. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or as a delightful side at any meal. Its unique combination of textures and tastes makes it a crowd-pleaser, while the creamy dressing and zesty toppings ensure that every bite is packed with flavor.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Pasta: 8 ounces of fusilli or penne
– Corn: 2 cups of fresh or grilled corn (about 4 ears of corn)
– Red bell pepper: 1, diced
– Red onion: 1/2, finely chopped
– Cilantro: 1/4 cup, chopped
– Cotija cheese: 1 cup, crumbled
– Jalapeño: 1, minced (optional for heat)
– Lime juice: 1/4 cup, fresh
– Olive oil: 3 tablespoons
– Chili powder: 1 teaspoon
– Salt and pepper: to taste

Prep Time

The prep time for this mouthwatering Mexican street corn pasta salad is approximately 15 minutes. This includes preparing the ingredients, cooking the pasta, and assembling the dish.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

– Cook Time: 10 minutes
– Total Time: 25 minutes
– Yield: Serves 6-8 people

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Grill the Corn

While the pasta is cooking, prepare the corn. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Husk the corn and grill it for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until it is charred and cooked through. Once grilled, allow it to cool slightly before cutting the kernels off the cob.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, grilled corn, diced bell peppers, chopped cilantro, and crumbled queso fresco. Mix well to incorporate all ingredients evenly.

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt until smooth. Adjust seasonings to taste.

Step 5: Toss the Salad

Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mixture. Toss gently to coat all ingredients thoroughly with the dressing.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled as a side dish or light meal.

Notes

Note 1: Variations

Feel free to add other vegetables such as red onions, avocados, or jalapeños for additional flavor and texture.

Note 2: Cheese Alternatives

If you cannot find queso fresco, feta cheese or cotija cheese can serve as substitutes.

Note 3: Vegan Option

To make this salad vegan, substitute the mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative and omit the cheese.

Note 4: Leftover Storage

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Note 5: Serving Suggestions

This pasta salad pairs well with grilled meats, fajitas, or can be enjoyed on its own for a refreshing meal.

Cook techniques

Roasting Corn

Roasting corn brings out its natural sweetness and adds a smoky flavor. You can achieve this by grilling the corn until it’s tender and charred, creating a delicious base for your pasta salad.

Boiling Pasta

Boiling pasta requires bringing water to a rolling boil and adding salt. Cooking the pasta until al dente ensures it has the right texture for the salad, preventing it from becoming mushy.

Chopping Vegetables

Chopping vegetables into uniform pieces ensures even distribution throughout the salad. Use a sharp knife and a cutting board to create a variety of shapes and sizes for a visually appealing dish.

Mixing Ingredients

Carefully mixing the ingredients helps to combine flavors without breaking down the pasta or vegetables. Use a large mixing bowl and gentle folding motions to maintain texture.

Adding Dressings

Adding dressings to your pasta salad should be done gradually. This technique allows for better flavor absorption while ensuring that the salad remains creamy and well-coated.

FAQ

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen corn. Just make sure to cook it until it’s heated through before adding it to the salad.

What type of pasta works best for this salad?

Short pasta shapes like rotini or penne are ideal for pasta salads, as they hold onto the dressing and other ingredients well.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftover pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be made ahead of time. However, for the best flavor, it’s recommended to add dressing just before serving.

What variations can I try for this recipe?

You can customize the salad by adding beans, avocado, or different types of cheese for a unique twist.

Conclusion

The Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delightful and vibrant dish that combines the rich flavors of traditional Mexican street corn with the heartiness of pasta. This salad is perfect for gatherings, picnics, or a refreshing side dish to complement any meal. Its unique combination of ingredients not only pleases the taste buds but also brings a splash of color to your dining table.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Caprese Salad

A fresh and simple salad combining mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, drizzled with balsamic reduction, perfect for warm days.

Taco Pasta Salad

A fun twist on classic taco flavors mixed with pasta, featuring ground beef, black beans, corn, and creamy dressing.

Grilled Vegetable Salad

Mix grilled seasonal vegetables with a light vinaigrette for a healthy and colorful dish that pairs well with the pasta salad.

Chicken Caesar Salad

Combine grilled chicken breast, romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing for a filling salad that complements the pasta beautifully.

Quinoa Salad with Avocado

This nutrient-packed quinoa salad with diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a citrus dressing adds an additional layer of heartiness to your meal.

Cilantro Lime Rice

A zesty side dish that pairs excellently with the flavors of Mexican corn pasta salad, providing a perfect balance to the meal.