Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on the classic elote, bringing together creamy, tangy flavors in a refreshing pasta dish. Perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or as a tasty side for any meal, this salad combines the sweetness of corn with zesty lime and rich crema. It’s quick to make and sure to impress your guests with its vibrant taste and colorful presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of lime juice, cotija cheese, and cilantro creates a refreshing salad that excites the taste buds.
• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of prep and cook time, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Versatile Dish: This pasta salad is perfect as a side for barbecues, picnics, or even as a light main course.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving family or hosting friends, this salad is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
• Customizable: Feel free to add extra veggies or adjust spices to suit your personal taste.

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Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious Mexican street corn pasta salad, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking pasta and corn efficiently without overcrowding.
• Colander: Helps in draining pasta quickly and effectively.
• Mixing bowls: Great for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending sauces smoothly.

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.

For the Pasta

• 16 ounces ditalini pasta (or any shape, like shells, elbow macaroni, or bow-tie)
• 2 teaspoons olive oil

For the Corn Salad

• 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 Tajín, for topping)

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Cook the pasta to al dente according to package instructions.
2. Drain the pasta and immediately toss it with olive oil in a large bowl to prevent sticking.
3. Allow the pasta to cool on the counter or in the fridge while you prepare the corn.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat.
2. Add the corn and cook for 5 minutes until tender and bright yellow.
3. Transfer the corn to a plate to cool until it’s safe to handle.

Step 3: Cut the Corn Kernels

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

Step 4: Mix the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, mayonnaise, Mexican crema, garlic powder, salt, and cayenne pepper until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

1. Add the mayonnaise sauce, cooked corn, cilantro, and cotija cheese to the bowl of pasta.
2. Toss everything together until well combined.

Step 6: Serve or Refrigerate

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

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This creamy and tangy Mexican street corn pasta salad is perfect for gatherings or a refreshing side dish. Here are some delicious serving suggestions that will enhance your meal.

As a Standalone Dish

• This pasta salad can be served on its own as a light lunch or dinner. Its flavors are satisfying enough to be the star of the meal.

With Grilled Meats

• Pair this salad with grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp for a complete meal. The smoky flavors of grilled meats complement the tangy elements in the pasta salad beautifully.

At Potlucks and Picnics

• Bring this dish to your next potluck or picnic. It travels well and is sure to impress your friends with its vibrant colors and flavors.

With Tortilla Chips

• Serve alongside crispy tortilla chips for added crunch. This combination offers a fun texture contrast that everyone will enjoy.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Top the salad with additional cilantro or green onions just before serving. This adds a fresh burst of flavor and a pop of color to your dish.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Mexican street corn pasta salad, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose the right pasta: Ditalini works well, but you can use any shape that holds dressing well, such as shells or bow-tie pasta.
• Fresh corn is key: Use fresh corn on the cob for the best taste. If fresh isn’t available, frozen corn can be a good substitute.
• Balance flavors: Adjust lime juice and salt according to your taste preferences. Taste as you mix to find the perfect balance.
• Chill before serving: Letting the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes helps meld flavors together, enhancing the overall taste.
• Add spice: If you like heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or extra cayenne pepper to kick it up a notch.
• Garnish generously: Don’t skip on the toppings! Extra cotija cheese and Tajín give it that authentic Mexican elote flair.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Mexican street corn pasta salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some excellent options to complement your meal.

1. Grilled Veggies: A mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and onions grilled until tender adds a healthy touch.
2. Black Bean Tacos: Flavorful black beans wrapped in soft tortillas create a hearty option alongside the salad.
3. Avocado Salsa: Creamy avocado salsa provides fresh flavors that enhance your dining experience.
4. Spanish Rice: This savory rice dish brings another layer of flavor and texture to your meal.
5. Cilantro Lime Rice: A zesty rice option that pairs perfectly with Mexican dishes while echoing similar flavors found in the pasta salad.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with quinoa and spices make an attractive and nutritious side choice.
7. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful contrast to the creamy pasta salad.
8. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate and add sweetness after enjoying this savory dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Mexican street corn pasta salad can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the pasta too long makes it mushy. Always aim for al dente, which means firm to the bite.
• Neglecting to Cool the Pasta: If you skip cooling the pasta, it can clump together. Toss it with olive oil and let it cool before mixing in other ingredients.
• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using canned corn or pre-packaged sauces can lead to a less flavorful dish. Fresh corn and homemade dressing elevate the taste significantly.
• Not Tasting for Seasoning: Failing to adjust seasoning can result in blandness. Always taste your salad before serving and add more salt or lime juice if needed.
• Forgetting Toppings: Toppings add texture and flavor. Don’t skip the cilantro, cotija cheese, and chile lime seasoning—they’re essential for that authentic taste!

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3 days.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Not recommended for freezing as mayonnaise and crema can separate upon thawing.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat with a splash of water or lime juice, stirring frequently.

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 creamy dish that combines pasta with flavors inspired by traditional elote, including corn, lime, and spices.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make a vegan version of Mexican street corn pasta salad, substitute mayonnaise with a vegan alternative and use cashew cream instead of crema.

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen corn works well! Just steam it or microwave it before adding it to your salad for similar flavor and texture.

What can I serve with Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

This pasta salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, tacos, or as part of a potluck spread. It’s a versatile side dish!

Final Thoughts

This Mexican street corn pasta salad is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding proteins like chicken or black beans or switching up the herbs. We encourage you to try this recipe at your next gathering; it’s sure to impress!