There’s nothing quite like a summer picnic where the air is filled with laughter, the sun is shining, and everyone is devouring mouthwatering dishes. Picture this: You take a bite of this Mexican street corn pasta salad, and it’s like an explosion of flavors; sweet corn mingling with creamy dressing, zesty lime dancing on your taste buds, and a sprinkle of chili powder bringing the heat. Every forkful is an invitation to indulge in a fiesta of textures and aromas that promise to make your taste buds sway like they’re at a salsa party. For more inspiration, check out this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe recipe.
Now, let’s be real—who doesn’t have fond memories of street food? As a kid, I would chase after the sound of the corn vendor’s cart like it was the ice cream truck. The tantalizing aroma of grilled corn smothered in creamy goodness would be enough to make anyone drop their toy and sprint! This Mexican street corn pasta salad captures that nostalgia while being effortlessly easy to whip up for any gathering. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue, a potluck with friends, or just a Tuesday night craving for something delicious, this dish is bound to steal the show.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Mexican street corn pasta salad is incredibly easy to prepare and comes together in under 30 minutes.
- Its flavor profile balances sweetness and spice perfectly, making it universally loved.
- The vibrant colors of corn, pasta, and fresh herbs make it visually stunning on any table.
- Versatile enough to serve as a side dish or main course, it pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed as a light lunch.
Ingredients for mexican street corn pasta salad
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pasta: Use rotini or penne for great texture that holds onto the dressing.
- Fresh Corn: Opt for sweet corn on the cob for that crisp bite; it’s worth it!
- Mayonnaise: A key ingredient for that creamy base; feel free to use Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens up all those rich flavors; don’t skip this!
- Chili Powder: Adds just the right amount of heat—adjust according to your spice tolerance.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings in that herby freshness; you can substitute parsley if you’re not a fan.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make mexican street corn pasta salad
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water; nobody wants warm salad here!
Step 2: Prepare the Corn
While your pasta cooks, grill or boil the fresh corn until tender (about 5-7 minutes). If grilling, brush with olive oil for extra flavor! Let cool before cutting off the kernels.
Step 3: Mix the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), fresh lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth—this dressing is where all the magic happens!
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add cooled pasta and corn kernels into the bowl with dressing. Toss everything together gently so each piece gets coated in that creamy goodness.
Step 5: Add Fresh Herbs
Fold in chopped cilantro (or parsley) into your mixture—this step adds vibrancy both in flavor and appearance.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Let chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving so those flavors can mingle beautifully!
Transfer to plates or bowls when ready and garnish with additional cilantro if desired. Enjoy every delicious bite of this Mexican street corn pasta salad—it’s sure to become one of your favorites!
You Must Know
- This Mexican street corn pasta salad combines the creamy goodness of elote with the heartiness of pasta.
- It’s a colorful dish that pleases the eyes and stomach, perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners.
- Easy to whip up, it’s a fun twist on two classics!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the pasta until al dente while you grill the corn until it’s beautifully charred. Toss everything together with your favorite dressing and serve chilled for maximum flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ingredients like adding black beans for protein or jalapeños for some heat. You can also use different types of cheese to bring in varied flavors.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To enjoy again, simply give it a good stir; no reheating is necessary!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh corn on the cob for a sweeter crunch instead of canned.
- Make sure to taste your dressing before mixing; adjust as needed.
- When serving, sprinkle with lime zest for an extra zing!
I still remember the first time I made this Mexican street corn pasta salad for my friends at a picnic. Their faces lit up as they dove in, and I knew I’d struck gold!
FAQs
What is Mexican street corn pasta salad?
Mexican street corn pasta salad is a delightful dish that blends the flavors of traditional Mexican street corn, known as elote, with pasta. It typically features cooked pasta mixed with charred corn, creamy dressing, cheese, lime juice, and spices. This salad offers a unique twist on classic pasta salads, delivering vibrant flavors and textures that make it perfect for summer gatherings or potlucks.
How do I store leftover Mexican street corn pasta salad?
To store leftover Mexican street corn pasta salad, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. When ready to eat, give it a good stir to redistribute the dressing and flavors. If the salad appears dry after being stored, you can add a splash of lime juice or additional dressing before serving to enhance its taste.
Can I customize my Mexican street corn pasta salad?
Absolutely! You can easily customize your Mexican street corn pasta salad by adding your favorite ingredients. Consider including diced bell peppers, jalapeños for heat, or black beans for added protein. You might also experiment with different types of cheese like feta or cotija for unique flavors. Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences!
Is Mexican street corn pasta salad served hot or cold?
Mexican street corn pasta salad is best served cold. After preparing the dish, allow it to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This chilling time helps the flavors meld together beautifully. cucumber tomato salad Enjoy it as a refreshing side dish during summer barbecues or as a light lunch option throughout the year.
Conclusion for mexican street corn pasta salad
In summary, Mexican street corn pasta salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the essence of traditional elote with pasta for a delightful twist. Perfect for any gathering or picnic, this recipe allows for customization and is best enjoyed chilled. Taco bake casserole recipe With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this salad can quickly become a favorite at your table. Enjoy every bite of this tasty treat!
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Mexican street corn pasta salad is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that combines the beloved essence of traditional elote with hearty pasta. Featuring sweet grilled corn, zesty lime, and creamy dressing, this salad is perfect for summer gatherings or a light lunch. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s sure to impress your guests and become a staple on your picnic table!
Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 2 cups fresh corn (about 2 ears)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt)
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (or parsley)
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Grill or boil the corn for about 5-7 minutes until tender. Allow to cool before cutting off the kernels.
- In a large bowl, mix mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Add cooled pasta and corn to the bowl, tossing gently to coat with the dressing.
- Fold in chopped cilantro for added freshness.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling, Mixing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 240g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
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