Street Corn Pasta Salad

Street corn pasta salad is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of roasted corn with the heartiness of pasta, all enveloped in a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe stands out with its vibrant flavors and easy preparation. Enjoy the fresh taste of herbs and spices that will leave everyone craving more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 30 minutes needed from start to finish, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of roasted corn, jalapeños, and cotija cheese creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Serve it as a side dish at picnics or as a main course for lunch or dinner.
• Great for Meal Prep: This salad keeps well in the fridge, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prepping.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to modify the recipe by adding your favorite veggies or proteins.

Tools and Preparation

To make street corn pasta salad efficiently, having the right tools is essential. These tools will help you prepare each ingredient perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Necessary for boiling pasta to achieve that perfect al dente texture.
• Skillet: Ideal for roasting corn evenly, enhancing its flavor through caramelization.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without spilling.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Salad

• about 400g of pasta
• 2 roasted corn cobs
• 3 green onions
• 1 shallot
• 2 jalapenos
• 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 of 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: Prepare Other Ingredients

Prep your other ingredients: thinly slice the green onion, finely mince the shallot, garlic, jalapeño, and cilantro, and crumble/grate the cotija cheese. Zest and juice one 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, jalapeño, 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 versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a casual dinner, here are some ideas for serving this vibrant and flavorful salad.

As a Main Dish

• A generous portion of street corn pasta salad makes for a filling main course, perfect for lunch or dinner.

As a Side Dish

• Serve it alongside grilled meats or fish. The smoky flavors complement barbecued chicken or steak beautifully.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a fun twist, scoop the salad into large lettuce leaves. This makes for a light and refreshing appetizer or snack.

Topped with Protein

• Add grilled shrimp or chicken on top for an extra protein boost. This transforms your pasta salad into a hearty meal.

How to Perfect Street Corn Pasta Salad

To elevate your street corn pasta salad, consider these handy tips. They will help you achieve the best flavor and texture.

• Choose the right pasta: Opt for short shapes like fusilli or penne that hold the dressing well.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and produce enhance the flavor significantly; aim for vibrant colors and robust tastes.
• Don’t skip the lime zest: Adding lime zest brightens the dish and adds an extra layer of flavor you won’t want to miss.
• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer more heat, increase the amount of jalapeño or add some diced red pepper flakes.
• Let it chill: Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving enhances flavors as they meld together.
• Garnish generously: Top with additional cotija cheese and fresh cilantro right before serving for an appealing presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Street Corn Pasta Salad

Pairing your street corn pasta salad with complementary side dishes can create a delicious meal. Here are some tasty options to consider:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken marinated in spices adds protein and pairs well with the salad’s flavors.
2. Black Bean Corn Salsa: A refreshing salsa with black beans, corn, tomatoes, and lime juice offers a zesty contrast.
3. Watermelon Feta Salad: This sweet and salty dish provides a refreshing balance to the smoky pasta salad.
4. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Combining roasted corn with mayo, cheese, and spices echoes flavors found in your pasta salad.
5. Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: Smooth guacamole served with crunchy chips makes for a fun snack that complements your meal.
6. Roasted Vegetable Platter: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition, enhancing your dining experience.
7. Chili Lime Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes tossed in chili powder and lime juice make an excellent side that harmonizes with the salad’s theme.
8. Spicy Pickled Vegetables: Adding tangy pickled veggies introduces another layer of flavor while keeping things exciting on the plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Street Corn Pasta Salad can be fun, but some common mistakes can ruin the dish. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long can turn it mushy. Always aim for al dente texture for the best bite.
• Skipping the roasting: Roasting corn enhances its flavor. Don’t skip this step; it adds a smoky, sweet taste to your salad.
• Ignoring fresh ingredients: Using wilted herbs or old veggies affects freshness. Always use the freshest ingredients for vibrant flavors.
• Not seasoning adequately: Failing to season your dressing can lead to blandness. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before mixing.
• Assembling too early: Mixing the salad too far in advance can make it soggy. Assemble just before serving for the best texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep in the fridge to maintain freshness.

Freezing Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Freezing is not recommended as it can affect texture and flavor.
• If necessary, separate components before freezing, such as dressing and pasta.

Reheating Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm in a covered dish for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat over low heat, adding a splash of water or oil if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape you prefer will work! Just ensure it’s cooked al dente.

What if I don’t like spicy food?

You can reduce or omit jalapenos to make the salad milder without losing flavor.

How can I customize my Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for more color and crunch!

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to avoid sogginess.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It’s great for meal prep; just store portions in individual containers.

Final Thoughts

This Street Corn Pasta Salad is not only delightful but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or make it spicier if you wish. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or quick lunches. Give it a try and enjoy all the flavors!