Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Introduction

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad has quickly become a family favorite in our household. The combination of smoky, charred corn with a creamy, zesty dressing creates an explosion of flavor that is simply irresistible. We recently brought this dish to a summer gathering, and it was a hit! Guests kept asking for the recipe, and I loved seeing everyone enjoy the vibrant flavors. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, making it the perfect side dish for potlucks, barbecues, or just a refreshing meal at home.

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (rotini, penne, or your choice)
• 2 cups grilled corn kernels (from about 4 ears of corn)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled (or use feta as a substitute)
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
• Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook Pasta: Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool it down, then set aside.

2. Grill the Corn

• Preheat the Grill: While the pasta cooks, preheat a grill to medium-high heat.
• Grill Corn: Grill the corn, turning occasionally, until all sides are charred (about 10-12 minutes). Once cool, slice the kernels off the cob. Alternatively, you can char canned or frozen corn in a hot skillet.

3. Prepare the Dressing

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until the dressing is smooth and well combined.

4. Assemble the Salad

• Combine Ingredients: Add the cooled pasta, grilled corn, cotija cheese, jalapeño, cilantro, red onion, and cherry tomatoes (if using) into the dressing.
• Toss Together: Gently toss everything together until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.

5. Chill and Serve

• Taste and Adjust: Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or lime juice if necessary.
• Refrigerate: Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

6. Garnish and Enjoy

• Serve Chilled: Serve chilled, garnished with extra cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of tangy flavor.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories: 320 kcal per serving

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Presentation:
• Serve the salad in a large bowl or individual serving dishes.
• Garnish with extra cotija cheese and cilantro.
• Add lime wedges on the side for a fresh squeeze of lime juice.

Additional Tips

1. Corn Alternatives: If you can’t grill corn, you can use frozen corn. Simply sauté it in a skillet for a few minutes to get some color.
2. Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeño based on your spice preference. You can omit it entirely for a milder salad.
3. Make Ahead: This salad can be made a day in advance. Just keep the lime wedges separate until serving to maintain freshness.
4. Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
5. Fresh Herbs: Consider adding chopped green onions or parsley for added freshness and color.

Recipe Variations

• Add Protein: Incorporate grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans for a heartier meal.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute cotija cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative.
• Different Pasta: Try using whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.
• Add Avocado: Diced avocado can add a creamy texture and healthy fats to the salad.
• Different Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses such as queso fresco or shredded Monterey Jack.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this salad with grilled meats like chicken or steak for a complete meal.
• Serve alongside tacos or quesadillas for a festive Mexican-themed dinner.
• Great for potlucks, picnics, or as a side at backyard barbecues.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: It’s best not to freeze this salad due to the creamy dressing, which may separate upon thawing. However, the grilled corn can be frozen separately for future use.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use canned corn instead of fresh?
Yes, canned corn works in a pinch. Just make sure to drain and rinse it well before use.

2. Is there a dairy-free option for this salad?
Yes, use dairy-free mayonnaise and a plant-based sour cream or yogurt for a dairy-free version.

3. How spicy is this salad?
The spice level depends on the amount of jalapeño you use. You can adjust it to your taste.

4. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! It’s best when the flavors have had time to meld, so preparing it a day in advance works well.

5. How can I make this salad more filling?
Add protein such as grilled chicken or black beans to make it more substantial.

6. What type of pasta works best?
Any pasta works well, but rotini or penne are great choices for holding the dressing.

7. Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra crunch.

8. How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

9. Can I use lime juice from a bottle?
While fresh lime juice is recommended for the best flavor, bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch.

10. Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes, feta cheese is a good substitute for cotija if you can’t find it.

Conclusion

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delightful, vibrant dish that brings together the beloved flavors of Mexican street corn in a refreshing pasta format. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or any time you want to impress your family and friends with a tasty and unique side dish. The creamy dressing, charred corn, and zesty lime make each bite a celebration of flavor. Try it out at your next event, and watch it become a new favorite! Enjoy!

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