Street Corn Pasta Salad

Street corn pasta salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines tender noodles with roasted corn, fresh herbs, and a zesty lime sauce. This delightful salad is perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or as a side at family gatherings. With its unique blend of textures and tastes, it stands out as a must-try recipe. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing potluck option, this street corn pasta salad delivers on all fronts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of roasted corn, jalapenos, and spices creates a mouthwatering taste experience.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm or chilled as a side or main dish for any occasion.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh herbs and vegetables enhances the overall flavor and nutrition.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s hearty enough to satisfy while being light and refreshing for everyone.

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Tools and Preparation

To make street corn pasta salad successfully, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures your cooking process is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Frying pan
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Perfect for cooking pasta evenly while providing ample space to prevent sticking.
• Frying pan: Ideal for roasting the corn to achieve that delicious smoky flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all ingredients thoroughly without mess.

Ingredients

Street corn pasta salad features tender noodles, roasted corn, and a bunch of herbs all tossed in a tangy, smoky lime sauce.

For the Pasta Salad

• about 400g of pasta
• 2 roasted corn cobs
• 3 green onions
• 1 shallot
• 2 jalapeno
• 1/2 cup cilantro
• 1 cup cotija cheese

For the Dressing

• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayo
• 3 cloves garlic
• juice and zest of 1 lime
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp salt & pepper

How to Make Street Corn Pasta Salad

Step 1: Roast the Corn

Start by husking your corn and roasting it. I fried mine on a pan with olive oil for about 10-15 minutes, making sure to rotate every couple minutes. Once cooked take a knife or peeler to separate the kernels from the cob.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add in your pasta. Cook until al dente, strain and set aside. (Tip: drizzle some olive oil and toss to prevent pasta sticking.)

Step 3: Prep Your Ingredients

Prep your other ingredients by doing the following:
1. Thinly slice the green onion.
2. Finely mince the shallot, garlic, jalapeno, and cilantro.
3. Crumble or grate the cotija cheese.
4. Zest and juice 1 lime.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

Make the dressing by combining sour cream, mayo, minced garlic, lime zest and juice, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt and pepper.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

All that’s left to do is assemble! Start by adding your cooked pasta to a large bowl along with the roasted corn, green onions, shallot, jalapeno, cilantro, and cotija cheese. Pour the dressing over top and mix well. Top with more cotija and fresh herbs if desired and enjoy!

How to Serve Street Corn Pasta Salad

Street corn pasta salad is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether it’s a summer barbecue, a casual lunch, or a family dinner, this pasta salad brings vibrant flavors and colorful presentation to the table.

As a Main Dish

• This pasta salad can stand alone as a hearty main course. Serve it chilled for a refreshing meal on warm days.

Accompanied by Grilled Meats

• Pair your street corn pasta salad with grilled chicken or steak. The smoky flavors in the salad complement the charred taste of grilled meats beautifully.

On a Picnic Plate

• Pack it for a picnic! Its robust ingredients hold up well, making it an excellent choice for outdoor dining.

As Part of a Potluck Spread

• Bring it to potlucks. Its unique flavor will impress guests and can serve as an easy side for various dishes.

With Fresh Bread

• Serve with crusty bread or garlic knots. The bread soaks up the delicious dressing, enhancing every bite.

How to Perfect Street Corn Pasta Salad

To make your street corn pasta salad truly exceptional, follow these helpful tips. They ensure optimal flavor and texture in every serving.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs amplify the salad’s taste and enhance its appearance.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or lime juice as needed for balance.
• Let it chill: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with cheese: While cotija is traditional, feel free to try feta or queso fresco for a different twist.
• Add protein: For extra nutrients, consider adding grilled shrimp or shredded chicken to make it more filling.
• Mix in more veggies: Incorporate diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for added color and crunch.

Best Side Dishes for Street Corn Pasta Salad

Street corn pasta salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its vibrant flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Vegetables: A medley of zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus tossed in olive oil and herbs enhances the freshness of the meal.
2. Black Bean Salsa: This zesty salsa adds protein and tanginess, creating a dynamic contrast to the creamy pasta salad.
3. Chips and Guacamole: Crunchy tortilla chips served with guacamole provide textural variety while keeping with the Mexican theme.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices make an excellent side that echoes the flavors of the main dish.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a comforting side that balances out the tanginess of the pasta salad.
6. Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad provides crispness and richness that pairs nicely without overpowering the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making street corn pasta salad, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta for too long can result in a mushy texture. Always check for al dente and follow cooking times on the package.
• Skipping Roasting the Corn: Not roasting the corn can lead to a lack of flavor. Make sure to roast until slightly charred for that smoky taste.
• Forgetting to Prep Ingredients: Cutting vegetables after cooking can lead to chaos. Always prep your ingredients beforehand for a smoother cooking process.
• Using Low-Quality Cheese: Using subpar cheese can affect the dish’s overall taste. Opt for fresh cotija cheese for the best flavor and texture.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Skimping on spices can make the salad bland. Don’t forget salt, pepper, and smoked paprika for enhanced flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal taste.

Freezing Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container if you want to keep it longer.
• Use within 1-2 months for best quality.

Reheating Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Gently warm on low heat, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about street corn pasta salad.

What is Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Street corn pasta salad is a delicious dish combining tender pasta with roasted corn, herbs, and a tangy dressing inspired by Mexican street food.

Can I make Street Corn Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad tastes even better when made a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container.

How do I customize Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or avocado. You can also adjust spices based on your preference for heat.

What can I serve with Street Corn Pasta Salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled meats or as a refreshing side at summer barbecues. It’s versatile enough for any meal!

Final Thoughts

Street corn pasta salad is not only delightful but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or as a light lunch option. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients to make it uniquely yours!