Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the beloved tastes of elote with pasta. This salad is perfect for summer cookouts, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with minimal effort. Its refreshing flavors and creamy texture make it a standout side dish that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, this salad comes together in only 25 minutes.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of grilled corn, fresh cilantro, and tangy lime juice creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side at barbecues or as a main dish for a light meal, making it suitable for various occasions.
• Crowd Pleaser: This recipe serves 12, making it ideal for gatherings and ensuring there’s plenty to go around.
• Customizable: Adjust the spices and add more toppings to suit your personal taste.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is straightforward with the right tools on hand. Gather everything you need before starting for an efficient cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Grill or grill pan
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides enough space to mix all ingredients without making a mess.
• Grill or grill pan: Ensures that the corn gets that delicious grilled flavor that elevates the salad.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Essential for cooking the pasta al dente, which gives it the perfect texture.
• Knife: A good knife helps chop vegetables quickly and safely.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Salad

• 1/2 lb radiatori pasta, cooked al dente
• 6 ears of grilled corn, kernels cut off
• 3/4 cup mayo
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoons paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/3 cup red onion, diced
• 1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled (more if desired)

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the radiatori pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
3. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Place in a large bowl.

Step 2: Grill the Corn

1. While the pasta is cooking, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat.
2. Grill each ear of corn until charred and tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before cutting off the kernels into the bowl with pasta.

Step 3: Mix it All Together

1. To the bowl with pasta and corn, add mayo, feta cheese, cilantro, lime juice, garlic, chili powder, paprika, salt, pepper, red onion, and cotija cheese.
2. Stir well until all ingredients are combined.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

1. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning if needed by adding more lime juice or salt.
2. Serve immediately or chill briefly in the refrigerator before serving.
3. Garnish with additional cilantro, red onion slices, cotija cheese, and lime wedges as desired.

Enjoy this delightful Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad at your next gathering!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that is perfect for any gathering. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.

As a Side Dish

• Pair it with grilled chicken or steak for a hearty meal.
• Serve alongside tacos for a festive touch.

In a Taco Bar

• Use it as a topping option in a taco bar. Guests can scoop it onto their favorite tacos for added flavor.
• Combine with other toppings like avocado or salsa for variety.

For a Picnic

• Pack it in mason jars for easy transport. This makes it convenient to serve and enjoy outdoors.
• Add lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick.

As Leftovers

• Enjoy it chilled straight from the fridge. The flavors often deepen after resting.
• Mix in some fresh veggies or beans to refresh the dish.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Creating the perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is all about balance and freshness. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and herbs enhance flavor, making your pasta salad stand out.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go, adding more lime juice or spices until you reach your desired flavor.
• Cool the Pasta Properly: Rinsing the pasta with cold water stops the cooking process and prevents mushiness.
• Garnish Creatively: Top with additional cilantro, cotija cheese, and lime wedges for an appealing presentation.
• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes helps meld the flavors together.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

When serving Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, pairing it with complementary side dishes enhances your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Shrimp Tacos: Lightly seasoned shrimp wrapped in tortillas offer a delightful contrast to the pasta salad.
2. Spicy Black Bean Dip: A creamy dip that pairs well with tortilla chips adds an extra layer of flavor.
3. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices provides a great base alongside your salad.
4. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip adds richness and pairs perfectly with the zesty salad.
5. Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomato salsa adds brightness and acidity that complements the pasta dish well.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn gives an authentic touch that ties in with the street corn theme.
7. Chips and Salsa: A classic snack that’s easy to prepare and goes well with any Mexican-inspired meal.
8. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa add nutrition and visual appeal to your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid to ensure your salad turns out perfectly.

• Using overcooked pasta: Cooking your pasta too long can make it mushy. Always cook until al dente for the best texture.
• Skipping the grilling step: Grilling the corn adds a smoky flavor that is essential. Don’t skip this step; it elevates the dish significantly.
• Not tasting before serving: Failing to taste your salad can lead to missed seasoning adjustments. Always taste and adjust lime juice, salt, or spices as needed.
• Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using stale ingredients can ruin your salad’s flavor. Ensure all produce is fresh for optimal taste and texture.
• Serving without chilling: Serving immediately may not allow flavors to meld properly. Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving for maximum flavor.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to the mayonnaise and fresh vegetables which can change texture.
• If necessary, store in a freezer-safe container but consume within a month for best quality.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the salad on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a pan over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad that many people have.

What is Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delicious twist on traditional elote salad, combining pasta with grilled corn and creamy dressing.

How can I customize my Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

You can customize by adding black beans, diced jalapeños for heat, or even avocado for creaminess. The options are endless!

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare it a few hours before serving or even the day before. Just remember to stir well before serving after chilling.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

This specific recipe is not gluten-free due to the pasta used. However, you can substitute with gluten-free pasta if needed.

Final Thoughts

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can adapt it based on seasonal ingredients or personal preferences. It’s perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or simply enjoying at home. Give it a try and discover how delightful this dish can be!