Street Corn Pasta Salad

Street corn pasta salad is a delightful dish that combines the flavors of roasted corn with creamy dressing and fresh herbs. It’s perfect for summer picnics, barbecue gatherings, or as a quick weeknight dinner. This unique pasta salad stands out with its tangy, smoky lime sauce and is sure to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy days.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of roasted corn, spicy jalapenos, and zesty lime makes every bite exciting.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side or main course; it fits any occasion from casual meals to festive feasts.
• Fresh Ingredients: Featuring fresh herbs and high-quality cheese, it’s a salad you can feel good about eating.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level or add your favorite veggies for a personal touch.

Tools and Preparation

To make street corn pasta salad, gather your essential tools and prepare your ingredients efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Large mixing bowl
• Frying pan
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Pot: Essential for cooking pasta perfectly al dente.
• Frying Pan: Ideal for roasting corn, adding depth of flavor to your salad.
• Mixing Bowl: A spacious bowl allows easy mixing of all ingredients without spills.

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

• about 400g of pasta

For the Corn and Vegetables

• 2 roasted corn cobs
• 3 green onions
• 1 shallot
• 2 jalapeno

For the Dressing

• 1/2 cup cilantro
• 1 cup cotija cheese
• 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 Your Ingredients

Prep your other ingredients:
Thinly slice the green onion.
Finely mince the shallot, garlic, jalapeno, and cilantro.
Crumble/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 the 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 colorful and flavorful dish perfect for gatherings or casual meals. Here are some ideas on how to serve it to elevate your dining experience.

As a Main Dish

• Serve it chilled as a light main course for lunch or dinner, especially on warm days.

At a Picnic

• Pack it in a portable container for picnics. The flavors meld beautifully when allowed to sit for a while.

As a Side Dish

• Pair it with grilled meats or fish. The tangy lime sauce complements the smoky flavors of barbecued dishes.

In a Wrap

• Use the salad as a filling for wraps. Add some extra greens for crunch and flavor.

Topped with Protein

• Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans on top for added protein and texture.

How to Perfect Street Corn Pasta Salad

To make your street corn pasta salad truly stand out, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables enhance the flavor significantly. Choose vibrant produce for the best results.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the jalapeno amount based on your heat preference. You can also substitute with milder peppers.
• Mix Ahead of Time: For deeper flavors, prepare the salad a few hours in advance and let it chill in the fridge before serving.
• Experiment with Cheese: While cotija is traditional, try feta or queso fresco for different flavor profiles.
• Add Extra Zing: A splash of hot sauce can boost the flavor if you like a bit more heat.
• Consider Gluten-Free Options: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.

Best Side Dishes for Street Corn Pasta Salad

Street corn pasta salad pairs well with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy and smoky, these skewers add protein and pair beautifully with the salad’s tanginess.
2. Chips and Guacamole: Crunchy tortilla chips served with creamy guacamole create a satisfying contrast in textures.
3. Black Bean Tacos: Simple tacos filled with seasoned black beans offer hearty satisfaction alongside your pasta salad.
4. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Enhance the corn theme by serving this grilled corn topped with mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime.
5. Avocado Salad: A fresh avocado salad dressed with lime juice adds creaminess that balances the dish’s flavors.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized seasonal veggies bring sweetness and depth to your meal, making it even more delightful.
7. Fruit Salsa: A refreshing fruit salsa made from diced mango or pineapple offers a sweet contrast that brightens up your plate.
8. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and spices add another layer of flavor while keeping things light yet filling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making street corn pasta salad, it’s easy to make small mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta too long can lead to a mushy texture. Always cook until al dente for the best results.
• Skipping Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like cilantro add vibrant flavor. Omitting them makes the salad taste flat; always include them for freshness.
• Neglecting Seasoning: A lack of seasoning can dull flavors. Ensure you taste and adjust salt and spices in your dressing to enhance the overall taste.
• Using Unroasted Corn: Raw corn lacks the depth of flavor that roasting brings. Always roast your corn for a smoky, delicious touch.
• Not Mixing Properly: Failing to mix thoroughly can leave you with uneven flavors. Toss everything well to ensure each bite is packed with flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Place in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months; however, some ingredients may not thaw well.

Reheating Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring frequently to avoid hot spots.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here’s what you might want to know about street corn pasta salad.

What is Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Street corn pasta salad is a delightful mix of pasta, roasted corn, fresh herbs, and a tangy dressing that captures the essence of Mexican street corn.

Can I add protein to Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Yes! Grilled chicken or shrimp can easily be added for extra protein and heartiness.

How can I customize my Street Corn Pasta Salad?

You can adjust spice levels by adding more jalapeños or use different cheeses like feta for varied flavors.

What is the best way to serve Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Serve it chilled as a side dish at barbecues or picnics; it’s perfect alongside grilled meats or vegetables!

Final Thoughts

Street corn pasta salad is a flavorful and versatile dish that will surely impress at any gathering. With options for customization, it’s easy to adapt this recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Give it a try and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Street Corn Pasta Salad

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• Author: Saphira
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that beautifully marries the sweetness of roasted corn with a creamy lime dressing and fresh herbs. This delightful salad is perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or a quick weeknight dinner. Its unique combination of flavors—smoky, tangy, and spicy—will impress your guests and keep them coming back for more. With easy preparation in just 30 minutes, this versatile dish can be served as a side or main course, making it ideal for any occasion.

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Ingredients

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• 400g pasta
• 2 roasted corn cobs
• 3 green onions
• 1 shallot
• 2 jalapeños
• ½ cup cilantro
• 1 cup cotija cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• ½ cup mayo
• Juice and zest of 1 lime
• smoked paprika
• chili powder
• salt
• pepper

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Instructions

1. Roast the corn in a frying pan with olive oil until golden. Remove kernels from the cob.
2. Cook pasta in salted water until al dente; strain and set aside.
3. Prepare ingredients: slice green onions, mince shallot and jalapeños, crumble cotija cheese, and zest/juice lime.
4. Mix dressing: combine sour cream, mayo, garlic, lime zest/juice, spices.
5. In a large bowl, combine pasta with corn, veggies, cilantro, cotija cheese; add dressing and mix well.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (210g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 30mg