Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delicious and easy spin on your classic elote salad! Perfect for your next cookout, this dish combines the vibrant flavors of Mexico with the satisfying texture of pasta. Ideal for warm weather gatherings, picnics, or potlucks, this salad stands out with its fresh ingredients and creamy dressing. The combination of grilled corn and tangy lime juice makes every bite refreshing and delightful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this flavorful salad in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The mix of grilled corn, feta cheese, and spices creates a savory explosion in every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for barbecues, picnics, or even as a light main course.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish serves 12 people, making it perfect for gatherings and parties.
• Nutritious Option: Packed with vegetables and healthy fats, it’s a guilt-free choice for any occasion.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad efficiently, certain tools will help streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large bowl
• Grill or grill pan
• Cooking pot
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Grill or grill pan: Ensures that the corn gets that delicious charred flavor that elevates the salad.
• Cooking pot: Necessary for boiling the pasta to the perfect al dente texture.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Salad

• 1/2 lb radiatori pasta, cooked al dente
• 6 ears of grilled corn, kernels cut off
• 3/4 cup mayo
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/3 cup red onion, diced
• 1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled (more if desired)

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Cook the radiatori pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Rinse with cold water to cool down the pasta.
3. Drain well and place in a large bowl.

Step 2: Grill the Corn

1. While the pasta is cooking, grill your corn until slightly charred.
2. Cut off the kernels from each ear of corn once cooled.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Add the grilled corn kernels to the bowl with pasta.
2. Mix in mayo, feta cheese, chopped cilantro, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, paprika, kosher salt, black pepper, diced red onion, and cotija cheese.

Step 4: Final Touches

1. Stir all ingredients together until well combined.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning by adding more lime juice or salt as needed.
3. Serve immediately garnished with additional cilantro, red onion slices, cotija cheese crumbles, and lime wedges.

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is sure to be a hit at your next gathering! Enjoy this unique dish that brings together beloved flavors in a fresh new way.

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant dish that can elevate any meal. Its creamy texture and zesty flavors make it a perfect addition to various occasions.

For a Summer Barbecue

• This pasta salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken or ribs, adding a refreshing contrast to smoky flavors.

As a Potluck Favorite

• Bring this salad to your next potluck, where its unique taste will surely impress your friends and family.

With Fresh Lime Wedges

• Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zing that enhances the flavors of the salad.

As a Quick Lunch

• Enjoy it as a satisfying lunch option, either on its own or alongside some tortilla chips for added crunch.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Perfecting your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is easy with a few tips. These suggestions will help you enhance both flavor and presentation.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh corn and herbs elevate the taste significantly compared to canned options.
• Adjust seasoning: Don’t hesitate to tweak lime juice, salt, or spices based on your personal preference.
• Chill before serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Experiment with cheeses: Try different cheese varieties like queso fresco or pepper jack for unique twists.
• Add protein: Incorporate grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier dish that can serve as a main course.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Pairing side dishes with Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad can create a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated in lime juice and spices, these skewers add protein and pair nicely with the salad.
2. Chili Lime Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with chili powder complement the flavors of the pasta salad perfectly.
3. Tortilla Chips and Salsa: A classic snack that adds crunch and additional flavor profiles to your meal.
4. Black Bean Tacos: Flavorful tacos filled with black beans provide a hearty vegetarian option that balances well with the salad.
5. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole offers a rich dip that enhances the overall dining experience.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brings out the summer vibes and complements the corn in your pasta salad.
7. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): A fun homage to traditional elote, this dish echoes familiar flavors while adding variety to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can enhance the dish. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the Cooling Step: Not cooling the pasta before mixing can lead to a soggy salad. Always rinse cooked pasta with cold water.
• Overcooking the Corn: Grilling corn too long can make it tough. Aim for a nice char while keeping it tender.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Under-seasoning can dull flavors. Taste as you mix and adjust lime juice and spices according to your preference.
• Forgetting Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or old ingredients can affect taste. Always opt for fresh herbs and produce for the best flavor.
• Not Garnishing: Skipping garnish can make your salad less appealing. A sprinkle of cilantro, red onion, and cotija cheese adds color and freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• Best used within 1-2 months for quality preservation.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Heat in an oven-safe dish until warm, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a pan, stirring gently until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What is Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on traditional elote salad featuring pasta, grilled corn, and zesty seasonings.

How long does Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad last?

When stored properly in the fridge, this salad lasts about 3-5 days.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Absolutely! You can add black beans, avocado, or jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is not gluten-free due to the pasta. However, you can easily substitute gluten-free pasta.

Final Thoughts

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your taste preferences or seasonal ingredients. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress your friends and family!

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Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

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• Author: Elliana
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 1x

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Description

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful twist on traditional elote salad, combining the beloved tastes of grilled corn, zesty lime, and creamy dressing with hearty pasta. Perfect for summer cookouts, picnics, or potlucks, this refreshing dish is easy to prepare and will impress your guests with its delicious combination of flavors and textures. Each bite delivers a burst of savory goodness from grilled corn and feta cheese, making it a standout side or light main course for any gathering.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1/2 lb radiatori pasta
• 6 ears of grilled corn
• 3/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup feta cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• chili powder
• paprika
• kosher salt
• black pepper
• 1/3 cup diced red onion
• 1/4 cup cotija cheese

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Instructions

1. Cook radiatori pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Rinse with cold water and drain.
2. Grill corn until slightly charred; cool and cut kernels off the cob.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, grilled corn, mayonnaise, feta cheese, cilantro, lime juice, garlic, spices, red onion, and cotija cheese.
4. Stir until well mixed. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve immediately.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Side
• Method: Grilling, Mixing
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 390mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: For a heartier version, add grilled chicken or shrimp. Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving for enhanced flavors. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like queso fresco.