Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Cool, creamy, with a bit of crunch and a hit of spiciness, this colorful Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad recipe with a creamy chile lime dressing has all the flavors of traditional Mexican Street Corn served up as the perfect cookout, tailgate and BBQ side dish! This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making it ideal for picnics, parties, or casual family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep and cooking time, this salad comes together quickly.
• Flavorful: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile: Perfect as a side dish for BBQs and cookouts or as a light main course.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This salad is sure to impress guests with its vibrant colors and taste.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: It stores well in the fridge, allowing you to prepare it ahead of time.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, gather your kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the pasta evenly until al dente.
• Skillet: Used to sauté the corn, enhancing its flavor through browning.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining all ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Makes mixing the dressing quick and easy.

Ingredients

To make this delightful Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Pasta Salad

• 16 oz rotini pasta
• 2 (15 oz) can golden kernel corn
• 1 cup cotija cheese (or feta)
• 2/3 cups chopped cilantro
• 1 small/medium red onion (diced)
• 1.5 large fresh jalapeños (deseeded, deveined & diced)

For the Dressing

• Olive oil
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup real mayonnaise
• 3-4 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin (heaping)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Making this vibrant salad is straightforward. Just follow these easy steps!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. In a large pot of generously salted water, boil pasta just to al dente.
2. Drain the pasta and let it cool.

Step 2: Sauté the Corn

1. While pasta is boiling, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Drain corn from cans and add it to the hot skillet. It should sizzle slightly.
3. Sauté corn until brown and seared; then remove from heat and allow to cool.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Once both pasta and corn are cooled, combine them in a large bowl.
2. Add chopped cilantro, diced onion, diced jalapeño peppers, and cotija cheese.

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing

1. Whisk together all dressing ingredients in a separate bowl.
2. Drizzle about 1/2 to 2/3 of the dressing over salad; toss well to combine.
3. Save remaining dressing for leftovers since pasta will soak up some dressing over time.

Enjoy your refreshing Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad at your next gathering!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad makes for a vibrant and tasty addition to any meal. Its delightful combination of flavors and textures will impress your guests at any gathering. Here are some creative ways to serve it.

As a Standalone Dish

• Pair it with grilled chicken or beef for a complete meal.
• Enjoy it chilled on a hot day as a refreshing lunch option.

At Cookouts and BBQs

• Serve alongside burgers or hot dogs for the perfect summer spread.
• Offer in individual cups for easy serving at parties.

With Toppings

• Add extra cotija cheese on top for a creamy finish.
• Sprinkle fresh cilantro or diced jalapenos for added flavor and color.

With Dips

• Serve with tortilla chips on the side for extra crunch.
• Pair with guacamole or salsa to enhance the flavor profile.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

To achieve the best results with your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, consider these helpful tips. They will elevate your dish and ensure maximum flavor.

• Choose al dente pasta: Cooking the pasta just right helps it hold up better when mixed with dressing and prevents sogginess.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh corn, cilantro, and jalapenos will give your salad vibrant flavors that canned ingredients can’t match.
• Chill before serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for at least an hour allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer less heat, use fewer jalapenos or remove the seeds entirely.
• Save some dressing: Keep extra dressing aside for leftovers, as pasta tends to absorb it over time.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

When planning your menu, consider pairing this pasta salad with complementary side dishes. Here are some delicious options that work well together.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Tender chicken marinated in spices adds protein and pairs perfectly with the salad’s flavors.
2. Vegetable Platter: A colorful array of fresh veggies served with hummus or ranch dip offers a crunchy contrast.
3. Black Bean Tacos: Flavorful tacos filled with black beans provide a hearty vegetarian option that matches well.
4. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances savory dishes nicely and adds sweetness.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Soft cornbread muffins complement the corn in the salad and add a comforting touch.
6. Guacamole and Chips: Creamy guacamole served with crispy tortilla chips enhances the overall experience with its rich taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad to the next level.

• Skipping the cooling step: Not allowing the pasta and corn to cool can lead to a soggy salad. Always let them cool before mixing.
• Using stale ingredients: Old spices and expired dairy can ruin flavors. Check your pantry for freshness before starting.
• Overdressing the salad: Adding too much dressing at once can make the pasta mushy. Drizzle gradually and toss until just coated.
• Ignoring spice levels: Not adjusting for heat can disappoint those who prefer milder dishes. Taste as you go and add jalapenos accordingly.
• Neglecting leftovers: Leaving salad out too long can affect quality. Store promptly in the fridge for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Not recommended, as freezing may alter texture and flavor.
• If necessary, freeze without dressing for better results.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring often, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: In a saucepan over low heat, stir occasionally until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What is Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad combines pasta with flavors inspired by traditional Mexican street corn, featuring a creamy dressing and fresh vegetables.

Can I customize the ingredients in Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or replace cotija cheese with feta or a vegan alternative.

How do I make the dressing for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

The dressing is made by whisking together sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, and spices. Adjust according to your taste preferences!

What can I serve with Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

This pasta salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish tacos, or as a vibrant side dish at cookouts and picnics.

How long does Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad last?

When stored properly in the fridge, it typically lasts up to 3 days.

Final Thoughts

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a fantastic dish that brings together bold flavors and textures, making it perfect for any gathering. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or simply craving a refreshing side dish, this salad is sure to impress!