Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a must-try dish!

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a must-try dish! This vibrant and creamy pasta salad combines the rich flavors of elote—charred corn, zesty spices, and a creamy dressing—all tossed with tender pasta. Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or summer picnics, this refreshing salad is sure to be a hit at any gathering!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of creamy dressing, spices, and fresh corn creates an explosion of flavor that everyone will love.
• Versatile Side Dish: This pasta salad pairs well with tacos, grilled meats, or as a standalone lunch option.
• Perfect for Summer: Served cold, it’s an ideal dish for warm weather events and gatherings.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week as a tasty lunch or side.

Tools and Preparation

To make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a must-try dish, gather your tools and prepare your ingredients. Having the right tools makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Refrigerator

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining all ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth dressing by thoroughly blending ingredients.
• Measuring cups: Ensure accurate ingredient portions for consistent flavor every time.

Ingredients

This vibrant and creamy pasta salad takes all the best parts of elote—charred corn, creamy dressing, and spices—and tosses them with tender pasta. A festive side dish for any gathering!

For the Pasta Salad

• 3 cups cooked rotini or penne pasta
• 2 cups corn (grilled, frozen, or canned)

For the Dressing

• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1/3 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

For Seasoning and Toppings

• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/3 cup crumbled cotija cheese

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a must-try dish!

Step 1: Combine Pasta and Corn

In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta with corn. Mix gently to ensure even distribution.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 3: Dress the Pasta Mixture

Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture. Toss until all ingredients are fully coated in the creamy dressing.

Step 4: Add Fresh Ingredients

Fold in chopped cilantro and crumbled cotija cheese. These add freshness and flavor to your salad.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a must-try dish!

This vibrant and creamy pasta salad is perfect for any occasion. Its fresh flavors make it a delightful side dish that pairs well with various meals.

At a Barbecue

• Serve it cold alongside grilled meats for a refreshing contrast.

As a Potluck Contribution

• This pasta salad travels well, making it an excellent choice for potlucks or gatherings.

With Tacos

• Pair it with your favorite tacos as a zesty side to enhance the meal.

For Lunch

• Enjoy it chilled in lunchboxes for an easy and satisfying meal option.

As Part of a Picnic Spread

• This dish is ideal for picnics, offering a cool and filling option among other snacks.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a must-try dish!

To get the most out of your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, follow these helpful tips for the best flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn or high-quality canned corn will elevate the taste significantly.

• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes helps meld the flavors together.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to add more chili powder or jalapeños if you prefer extra heat.

• Add Extra Toppings: Top with additional cotija cheese or avocado for added creaminess and flavor.

• Try Different Pastas: While rotini or penne works great, feel free to experiment with your favorite pasta shapes.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a must-try dish!

Pair your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad with these delicious side dishes that complement its vibrant flavors perfectly.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken grilled to perfection adds protein and depth to your meal.

2. Black Bean Tacos: These hearty tacos offer a flavorful vegetarian option that balances the pasta salad well.

3. Guacamole and Chips: Creamy guacamole served with crunchy tortilla chips creates a satisfying snack combo.

4. Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices makes an excellent accompaniment.

5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned vegetables roasted until tender provide a healthy and colorful side.

6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn complements the flavors in the pasta salad beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is easy, but a few common mistakes can ruin it.

• Using the wrong pasta: Choosing a pasta that doesn’t hold the dressing well can lead to a soggy salad. Stick with rotini or penne for the best results.
• Overcooking the corn: If you overcook your corn, you lose its sweet flavor and crisp texture. Aim for just charred or heated through if using frozen or canned corn.
• Skipping the chill time: Not allowing the salad to chill means missing out on flavor development. Let it rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can leave your salad bland. Always taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or lime juice as needed.
• Not using fresh herbs: Using dried herbs instead of fresh cilantro can diminish the salad’s freshness. Always opt for fresh when possible for maximum flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a must-try dish!

• Freezing is not recommended as it may change the texture of the pasta and vegetables.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a must-try dish!

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What makes Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad a must-try dish?

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad combines vibrant flavors of charred corn, creamy dressing, and spices, making it incredibly delicious and refreshing.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add diced avocado, black beans, or jalapeños to enhance flavor and texture. Feel free to experiment!

How do I serve Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

It makes an excellent side dish for barbecues, potlucks, or taco nights. Serve it chilled for a refreshing treat.

Is this pasta salad gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta options available at most grocery stores.

Final Thoughts

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a must-try dish that brings together delightful flavors and creamy textures. It’s perfect for gatherings or as a meal prep option. Customize with your favorite add-ins to make it uniquely yours!

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

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Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

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• Author: Saphira
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Experience the vibrant flavors of summer with Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad. This must-try dish brings together the essence of elote—charred corn, zesty spices, and a creamy dressing—all tossed with tender pasta. Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or casual lunches, this refreshing salad is not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser that will leave your guests raving about its bold taste.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 cups cooked rotini or penne pasta
• 2 cups corn (grilled, frozen, or canned)
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1/3 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/3 cup crumbled cotija cheese

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta with corn. Mix gently.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until fully coated.
4. Fold in cilantro and cotija cheese for added freshness.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to meld flavors.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: N/A
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 20mg