Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad combines all the delicious flavors of traditional elote into a refreshing and easy-to-make pasta dish. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or as a side for any meal, this salad offers a creamy texture with a zesty kick. With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, it’s sure to impress at your next gathering!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be made in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful and Fresh: The combination of lime juice, cotija cheese, and spices brings vibrant tastes that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side dish or make it the star of your meal—this salad fits any occasion!
• Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or proteins to make this salad your own.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its appealing look and rich flavors, this pasta salad is bound to be a hit among family and friends.

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Tools and Preparation

To make the Mexican street corn pasta salad, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Boiling the pasta and corn requires ample space; a large pot ensures everything cooks evenly.
• Colander: Draining cooked pasta is crucial to avoid sogginess; a good colander makes this step easy.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes helps in preparing ingredients separately before combining them.
• Whisk: A whisk is essential for blending the creamy dressing smoothly without clumps.

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 Salad

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

For the Corn Mixture

• 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 Tajiín, 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 or until tender and bright yellow.
3. Transfer the corn to a plate and let it cool until cool to touch.

Step 3: Cut Corn Kernels

1. Cut the corn kernels off the cob and place them into a medium bowl.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

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

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

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 delicious Mexican street corn pasta salad can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy meal at home, here are some serving suggestions to make the most of this vibrant dish.

As a Standalone Dish

• This pasta salad is rich and creamy, making it a satisfying main dish for lunch or dinner.

With Grilled Meats

• Pair with grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp for a delightful combination of flavors that complement each other beautifully.

At Potlucks or Picnics

• This salad is perfect for sharing. It’s easy to transport and can be served cold, making it an ideal choice for gatherings.

Garnished with Extra Toppings

• Enhance your serving with additional cilantro, crumbled cotija cheese, and a sprinkle of chile lime seasoning for added flavor and presentation.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

To ensure your Mexican street corn pasta salad is as delicious as possible, follow these helpful tips.

• Cook pasta al dente: This helps maintain the pasta’s texture and prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with the dressing.

• Use fresh corn: Freshly cooked corn kernels add sweetness and crunch compared to canned or frozen options.

• Chill before serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for at least an hour allows flavors to meld together nicely.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to tweak salt, lime juice, or spice levels based on your preference for a personalized touch.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This pasta salad pairs well with a variety of side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini add a smoky flavor that complements the salad.

2. Black Bean Salsa: A refreshing mix of black beans, tomatoes, onions, and lime provides a contrast to the creamy pasta.

3. Avocado Salad: Creamy avocados tossed in lime juice create a light and refreshing side that balances the richness of the pasta.

4. Mexican Rice: Flavored with spices and herbs, this dish adds texture and heartiness alongside your pasta salad.

5. Tortilla Chips with Guacamole: Crunchy tortilla chips paired with creamy guacamole offer a fun snack option that everyone loves.

6. Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits brings brightness and sweetness that enhances the overall meal experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mexican street corn pasta salad, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are mistakes to watch out for.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can make it mushy. Always aim for al dente and follow package instructions closely.
• Ignoring the Corn Cooking Method: Not cooking the corn properly can lead to tough kernels. Boil until tender and bright yellow for the best texture.
• Skipping Seasoning Adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasonings can result in a bland salad. Always taste and add more salt or lime juice as needed.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Using subpar ingredients like mayonnaise or cheese can alter the flavor significantly. Invest in good quality mayo and authentic cotija cheese for a richer taste.
• Not Allowing It to Chill: Serving right away may miss out on enhanced flavors. Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving to let the ingredients meld together.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to keep it covered to prevent drying out.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Freeze in a sealed container but note that some textures may change.
• Best used within 1 month for optimal freshness.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and warm for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Mexican street corn pasta salad combines traditional elote flavors with pasta for a creamy, tangy dish that’s perfect as a side or main course.

How do I customize my Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers or avocado, or swap in different cheeses based on your preferences.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute mayonnaise and crema with plant-based alternatives, and use dairy-free cheese if desired.

How long does this salad last?

Mexican street corn pasta salad will last up to three days in the refrigerator when stored properly.

What can I serve with Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, tacos, or as part of a larger potluck spread.

Final Thoughts

The Mexican street corn pasta salad is not only creamy and flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting its spice level. Give this delicious recipe a try at your next gathering!