Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is one of those dishes that brings a burst of flavor and joy to any gathering. I remember the first time I tried it at a summer barbecue. The creamy, tangy dressing combined with the sweet corn and a hint of spice was simply irresistible. Since then, I have made it countless times for friends and family, and it always gets rave reviews. If you want a refreshing and tasty dish for your next potluck or picnic, this pasta salad is a great option.
What is Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is inspired by the popular street food known as elote, which features grilled corn on the cob slathered in creamy sauce and topped with cheese and spices. This pasta salad takes those flavors and combines them with pasta, making it a hearty and satisfying dish. It’s perfect for warm weather and pairs well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own.
Ingredients for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
To make this delicious pasta salad, you will need the following ingredients:
- 8 oz rotini or penne pasta
- 2 cups corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 cup cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta cheese)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. I usually like to cook it al dente, which gives it a nice bite and prevents it from getting mushy. Once the pasta is done, drain it and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This also helps cool it down for the salad.
Preparing the Corn
While the pasta is cooking, you can prepare the corn. If you’re using fresh corn, grill the ears until they are slightly charred, and then cut the kernels off the cob. For frozen corn, just thaw it in the microwave. Canned corn should be drained and rinsed. The corn adds a sweet and smoky flavor that is essential to this dish.
Mixing the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, corn, red onion, red bell pepper, and cilantro. I love the crunch and freshness that the veggies bring to the salad. Gently toss everything together to mix the ingredients evenly.
Making the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. This dressing is creamy with a tangy kick, and it complements the flavors of the corn and pasta perfectly. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
Adding the Cheese
Next, fold in the crumbled cotija cheese. If you can’t find cotija, feta cheese works well too. The cheese adds a salty and creamy element that ties the whole dish together. Don’t be shy with the cheese; it’s one of the highlights of this salad.
Chilling the Salad
Once everything is mixed, cover the bowl and let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. If you can, let it chill for a few hours or even overnight. It tastes even better the next day!
Serving Suggestions
When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a quick stir and taste for seasoning. You may want to add a bit more lime juice or salt depending on your preference. This salad is perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or as a side dish for grilled chicken or steak.
Storage Tips
If you happen to have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for about 3 days. However, the pasta may absorb some of the dressing, so you might want to add a little more mayo or sour cream before serving again.
Why You’ll Love Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding other ingredients like avocado, jalapeños for heat, or even black beans for added protein. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover corn you might have.
This pasta salad has become a staple in my home during the warmer months. The combination of flavors and textures is simply delightful. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking for a tasty side dish, Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad will surely impress everyone at the table. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll be hooked just like I was!