Street Corn Pasta Salad

Street corn pasta salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines tender pasta with roasted corn, vibrant herbs, and a tangy lime dressing. This unique salad is perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or as a side to your favorite grilled meats. It’s easy to prepare and packed with delicious flavors, making it a standout at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This street corn pasta salad comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of roasted corn, lime juice, and spices creates a delightful taste that will leave your taste buds dancing.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main dish or as a side; it pairs well with various entrees.
• Fresh Ingredients: Packed with fresh produce like cilantro and green onions, this salad is not only tasty but also nutritious.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner at home, this salad fits right in.

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Tools and Preparation

To make your street corn pasta salad efficiently, gather the necessary tools and prepare your workspace. This will streamline the cooking process and ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Frying pan
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Frying pan: Perfect for roasting corn to enhance its flavor through caramelization.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures safe and precise chopping of vegetables.
• Mixing bowl: Helps combine all ingredients easily without mess.

Ingredients

Street corn pasta salad features tender noodles, roasted corn, and a bunch of herbs all tossed in a tangy, smoky lime sauce.

For the Pasta Salad

• about 400g of pasta
• 2 roasted corn cobs
• 3 green onions
• 1 shallot
• 2 jalapeno
• 1/2 cup cilantro
• 1 cup cotija cheese

For the Dressing

• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayo
• 3 cloves garlic
• juice and zest of 1 lime
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp salt & pepper

How to Make Street Corn Pasta Salad

Step 1: Roast the Corn

Start by husking your corn and roasting it. I fried mine on a pan with olive oil for about 10-15 minutes, making sure to rotate every couple minutes. Once cooked take a knife or peeler to separate the kernels from the cob.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add in your pasta. Cook until al dente, strain and set aside. (Tip: drizzle some olive oil and toss to prevent pasta sticking.)

Step 3: Prep Other Ingredients

Prep your other ingredients by thinly slicing the green onion, finely mincing the shallot, garlic, jalapeno, and cilantro. Crumble or grate the cotija cheese. Zest and juice 1 lime.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

Make the dressing by combining sour cream, mayo, minced garlic, lime zest and juice, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt and pepper.

Step 5: Assemble Your Salad

All that’s left to do is assemble. Start by adding your cooked pasta to a large bowl along with the roasted corn, green onions, shallot, jalapeno, cilantro, and cotija cheese. Pour the dressing over top and mix well. Top with more cotija and fresh herbs if desired and enjoy!

How to Serve Street Corn Pasta Salad

Street corn pasta salad is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a casual family dinner, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

As a Main Course

• This hearty pasta salad can stand alone as a refreshing main dish during warm weather. Pair it with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.

Alongside Tacos

• Serve the street corn pasta salad next to soft or crunchy tacos. The creamy lime dressing complements the spices of the tacos beautifully.

At a Picnic

• Pack this pasta salad in a portable container for your next picnic. Its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it an attractive centerpiece.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Accompany the salad with a side of grilled vegetables. The smoky flavor from the grill pairs well with the tangy notes of the pasta salad.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Top your serving with additional cilantro or green onions for an extra burst of freshness and color.

How to Perfect Street Corn Pasta Salad

To ensure your street corn pasta salad is always a hit, consider these essential tips for perfection.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh corn, herbs, and vegetables will enhance the overall flavor and texture of your salad.
• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer less heat, remove the seeds from jalapeños before adding them. This allows you to control the spice level.
• Chill before serving: Allow the salad to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes prior to serving. This helps all the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Add more lime zest: For an extra zing, feel free to add more lime zest to the dressing. It brightens up every bite.
• Mix gently: When combining all ingredients, mix gently to avoid breaking down the pasta or cheese too much.

Best Side Dishes for Street Corn Pasta Salad

Street corn pasta salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinate chicken pieces in spices and grill them on skewers for a delicious protein addition.
2. Black Bean Tacos: Prepare simple black bean tacos topped with avocado and salsa for a flavorful vegetarian option.
3. Avocado Salsa: Dice avocados, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro combined with lime juice for a fresh topping that enhances any dish.
4. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Serve traditional elote alongside for an authentic taste experience that echoes the ingredients in your pasta salad.
5. Chips and Guacamole: Crunchy tortilla chips paired with creamy guacamole create a fun appetizer that’s easy to share.
6. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with cilantro and lime makes for a light side that ties into the flavors of your main dish.
7. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Seasoned roasted sweet potatoes provide a sweet contrast that balances well with savory dishes.
8. Garden Salad: A crisp garden salad dressed lightly complements your pasta without overwhelming its bold flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Street Corn Pasta Salad, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta for too long can make it mushy. Always follow the package instructions and test for al dente texture.
• Skipping the Roasting Step: Roasting corn enhances its flavor. Don’t skip this step; it adds a smoky taste that is essential for this dish.
• Using Old Ingredients: Fresh ingredients matter! Check that your herbs, cheese, and veggies are fresh to guarantee the best flavors.
• Not Measuring Ingredients: Improper measurements can lead to unbalanced flavors. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy in your dressing and seasonings.
• Neglecting to Chill Before Serving: Letting your salad chill allows flavors to meld together. Serve it cold for the best taste experience.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep pasta salad separate from dressing if possible to maintain texture.

Freezing Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Not recommended, as the texture may change upon thawing.
• If necessary, freeze components separately, like dressing and corn.

Reheating Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm covered for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warm, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Street Corn Pasta Salad.

What is Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delightful dish combining pasta with roasted corn, herbs, and a tangy lime sauce inspired by Mexican street corn.

How can I customize my Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Feel free to add proteins like grilled chicken or black beans. You can also vary the types of cheese or herbs based on your preference.

Can I make Street Corn Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad tastes even better when made a few hours or a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Is Street Corn Pasta Salad spicy?

The level of spiciness depends on how much jalapeno you use. Adjust according to your taste!

What can I serve with Street Corn Pasta Salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fish tacos, or as a refreshing side at summer barbecues.

Final Thoughts

Street Corn Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. Its vibrant flavors and textures make it perfect for any occasion—from casual lunches to festive gatherings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients for a unique twist that suits your taste!