Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Creamy, crunchy, spicy, and sweet, this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad has it all! Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or family dinners, it combines the flavors of elote with a delightful twist. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a favorite for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavor Combination: The mix of creamy dressing with charred corn offers an explosion of flavors.
• Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes from prep to table, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm or chilled—either way, it’s a crowd-pleaser!
• Packed with Fresh Ingredients: Made with fresh corn and vibrant vegetables, it’s a healthy option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a barbecue, a potluck, or a simple family meal, this pasta salad fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your kitchen essentials to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pot
• Cast iron skillet
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Pot: Essential for boiling pasta to achieve the perfect al dente texture.
• Cast Iron Skillet: Ideal for charring corn evenly and adding depth to its flavor.
• Mixing Bowl: Necessary for combining all ingredients thoroughly without mess.

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Corn

• 8 oz (226 g) dry pasta
• 2 Tablespoons salted butter
• 4 cups (615 g) corn kernels (see note)
• ¼ teaspoon table salt

For the Dressing

• ⅔ cup (150 g) mayonnaise
• ⅓ cup (93 g) Mexican crema
• 2 Tablespoons lime juice (fresh preferred)
• 1 ½ teaspoons granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon table salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Add-ins

• ½ cup finely diced white or red onion
• ½ cup (70 g) grated cotija cheese
• ¼ cup finely chopped cilantro
• 2 Tablespoons finely diced jalapeno
• Additional chili powder or Tajin for sprinkling on top

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil.
1. Add the dry pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain well and transfer to a large mixing bowl. Set aside.

Step 2: Char the Corn

While the pasta cooks:
1. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add salted butter; cook until melted.
3. Stir in corn kernels and cook until charred in spots (approximately 5-8 minutes).
4. Sprinkle with salt, stir well, then remove from heat and transfer to the bowl with pasta. Allow cooling slightly.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl:
1. Whisk together mayonnaise, Mexican crema, lime juice, sugar, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until combined.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add onion, cotija cheese, cilantro, and jalapeño to the corn mixture:
1. Drizzle the dressing overtop.
2. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly coated with dressing.

Step 5: Serve

You can serve this pasta warm or cold—it tastes great either way!
1. Top with additional chili powder before serving or provide chili powder/Tajin on the side for guests to add as desired.

Enjoy this delightful Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad at your next gathering!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This Mexican street corn pasta salad is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you serve it warm or cold, it makes for a delightful dish that pairs well with many meals.

As a Side Dish

• Perfect alongside grilled meats like chicken or beef, enhancing the meal’s flavors.
• Serve it at barbecues as a refreshing complement to heavier dishes.

In a Picnic

• Ideal for outdoor outings; pack it in a cooler for easy transport.
• Serve it in individual cups for convenient, mess-free eating.

As a Main Course

• Add protein like grilled chicken or turkey to make it a filling main dish.
• Top with avocado slices for extra creaminess and nutrition.

For Meal Prep

• Store in airtight containers for quick lunches throughout the week.
• It’s great served as leftovers, allowing the flavors to meld even more.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Creating the perfect Mexican street corn pasta salad is easy with a few helpful tips. These suggestions will enhance the flavor and presentation of your dish.

• Use fresh corn: Opt for sweet, fresh corn off the cob when in season for the best taste.
• Balance flavors: Adjust lime juice and sugar according to your taste preference to achieve a delightful balance.
• Chill before serving: Letting the salad rest in the fridge allows flavors to develop and enhances its freshness.
• Customize toppings: Experiment with additional toppings like avocado or diced tomatoes for added texture and flavor.
• Add heat: For spice lovers, incorporate more jalapeños or sprinkle with cayenne pepper before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Mexican street corn pasta salad can elevate your meal. Below are some fantastic options that complement this flavorful salad beautifully.

1. Grilled Chicken Tacos: Seasoned chicken grilled to perfection, served in soft tortillas. Great for adding protein.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies roasted until tender, providing a nutritious contrast.
3. Black Bean Salad: A zesty black bean salad adds fiber and pairs well with the creamy pasta salad.
4. Guacamole and Chips: Creamy guacamole served with crunchy tortilla chips makes an irresistible appetizer combination.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful peppers filled with quinoa or rice, offering a hearty side option that complements the flavors.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins are perfect for soaking up any dressing from the pasta salad while adding a comforting touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, there are a few common missteps you should watch out for. Avoid these mistakes for the best flavor and texture!

• Using bland corn: Always use fresh or high-quality corn for maximum sweetness and flavor. If fresh corn isn’t available, opt for frozen corn that has been properly cooked.

• Overcooking the pasta: Ensure you cook the pasta al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and ruin the salad’s texture.

• Ignoring seasoning: The dressing is key! Don’t skip adding enough salt and spices to enhance the flavors of the ingredients. Taste as you go, and adjust accordingly.

• Forgetting to chill: This salad tastes best when chilled for a bit before serving. Allowing it to rest helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

• Skipping the toppings: Don’t skip sprinkling some chili powder or Tajin on top before serving. It adds an extra layer of flavor that elevates the dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to the mayonnaise and crema; they may separate upon thawing.
• If you must freeze, consider omitting these ingredients before freezing and adding them back after thawing.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a covered dish until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warmed.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.

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 sweet corn, creamy dressing, and vibrant seasonings inspired by traditional elote.

Can I customize my Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add proteins like chicken or turkey, or toss in other veggies like bell peppers or avocado for added taste and nutrition.

How do I make this salad spicy?

To increase spice levels, add more jalapeño or incorporate diced serrano peppers into your mix. You can also include hot sauce in the dressing.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad can be made a day in advance, allowing flavors to develop further. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until serving.

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of creamy, crunchy, spicy, and sweet elements that make it perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows for various customizations based on your taste preferences. Whether served warm or cold, this dish is sure to impress!