Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Are you looking for a dish that brings together the tangy, savory goodness of Mexican street corn with the heartiness of pasta? You’re in luck! This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is the perfect fusion of two favorites: Mexican street food and classic pasta salad. It’s easy to make, full of bold flavors, and the perfect side dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or need a quick weeknight meal, this dish won’t disappoint.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make this tasty salad, share some helpful tips, and explain why this recipe could easily become a staple in your kitchen. So, let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This recipe has it all: texture, flavor, and the ability to please a crowd. Combining the bold flavors of Mexican street corn (also known as Elote) with the versatility of pasta makes this dish a guaranteed hit. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Easy to Make: It takes less than 30 minutes to throw together, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Packed with Flavor: The zesty lime, creamy mayonnaise, smoky paprika, and chili powder pack a punch, making every bite delicious.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just a cozy dinner at home, this salad is sure to be a hit.
• Great for Meal Prep: It stores well in the fridge, so you can make it ahead of time and enjoy it all week.

Ingredients for the Perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

To make the perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that come together in an explosion of flavors:

• Pasta: Rotini or penne work well in this dish, as their shape holds the creamy dressing perfectly.
• Corn: Use thawed frozen corn for convenience, or grill fresh corn for an extra layer of smoky flavor.
• Red Bell Pepper: Adds a sweet, crunchy bite to the salad.
• Red Onion: Finely chopped red onion gives the salad a tangy zing.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a pop of herbaceous brightness.
• Cotija Cheese: A salty, crumbly Mexican cheese that adds a savory depth to the salad.
• Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: These two ingredients form the creamy base of the dressing.
• Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens up the salad and enhances the overall flavor.
• Chili Powder and Smoked Paprika: These spices bring a smoky heat to the dressing.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing the flavors.

Step-by-Step Directions to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

1. Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook your pasta until it’s al dente. This ensures that the pasta remains firm and doesn’t turn mushy when combined with the other ingredients. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down quickly.

2. Prepare the Salad Base

Once the pasta is cooled, transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Add the thawed corn, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, cilantro, and cotija cheese. This colorful mix forms the base of your salad and offers a variety of textures, from the crunchy veggies to the creamy cheese.

3. Make the Creamy Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. The dressing should be smooth and well combined. This mixture will coat the pasta and veggies, infusing them with tangy, smoky flavors that make this salad so irresistible.

4. Toss Everything Together

Pour the dressing over the salad base and toss everything together until the pasta and veggies are evenly coated. If needed, add more salt and pepper to taste.

5. Chill and Serve

Pop the salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making every bite more flavorful. When ready to serve, garnish with extra cilantro and cotija cheese for that final touch.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Use Fresh Ingredients for the Best Flavor

For the most vibrant flavors, use fresh lime juice and cilantro. Fresh lime juice brings brightness to the dish, while cilantro adds a zesty, fresh note that dried herbs simply can’t match.

Grill Your Corn for Extra Smoky Flavor

If you have a little extra time, grilling fresh corn before adding it to the salad elevates this dish. The charred bits add a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy dressing and chili powder.

Make It Your Own

Feel free to customize this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad. Add some grilled chicken or shrimp for protein, or toss in avocado for a creamy, rich texture. You can even throw in some black beans or jalapeños for added crunch and spice.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits

Not only is this salad loaded with flavor, but it’s also packed with healthy nutrients. Here’s why this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is more than just a tasty side dish:

• Corn is a good source of fiber, which promotes digestive health.
• Pasta provides a steady source of energy from complex carbohydrates.
• Cilantro is loaded with antioxidants and helps reduce inflammation.
• Cotija cheese is a rich source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones.

Here’s a closer look at the nutritional breakdown per serving:

Nutrition Details (Per Serving):

• Calories: 300
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g
• Vitamin A: 15%
• Vitamin C: 20%
• Calcium: 10%
• Iron: 8%

FAQs About Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

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