Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that promises to be the star of any gathering. Bursting with the sweetness of roasted corn, the creaminess of Cotija and cheddar cheese, and a hint of heat from jalapeños, this salad is perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or as a delightful side dish for family meals. Its unique blend of textures and flavors will impress your guests while being easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Roasted corn combined with creamy dressing and zesty jalapeños creates an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for barbecues or as a light main course for warm days.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This pasta salad serves up to 10 people, making it ideal for gatherings and parties.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice level or swap ingredients based on your preference.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more efficient. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Necessary for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Colander: Ensures the pasta is drained well, allowing it to cool properly.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all your ingredients without spills.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing the dressing thoroughly, ensuring a creamy consistency.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is loaded with roasted corn, Cotija and cheddar cheese, creamy dressing, and jalapeños for a kick of heat.

For the Pasta Salad

• 1 pound trotolle pasta
• 6 ears roasted corn
• 1/2 cup red onion (diced)
• 1/2 cup jalapeño pepper (diced)
• 3/4 cup finely shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 3/4 cup finely shredded Cotija cheese (divided)

For the Dressing

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 lime (juiced)
• 1-2 teaspoons Tajín

Garnish

• Freshly snipped cilantro
• Tajín

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Boil the trotolle pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted water. Once cooked, drain the pasta using a colander and rinse it with cold water to cool it down. Place the cooled pasta in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Add Roasted Corn

Cut the corn off each cob. Add the fresh roasted corn kernels directly into the bowl with the pasta.

Step 3: Mix in Vegetables and Cheese

Add diced red onion and jalapeño pepper to the bowl. Then sprinkle in 1/2 cup each of cheddar and Cotija cheese. Gently toss everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and Tajín. Start with 1 teaspoon of Tajín; taste and add more if desired. Pour this creamy dressing over the salad mixture and stir well until everything is coated.

Step 5: Garnish and Chill

Top your salad with remaining cheeses, additional Tajín for extra flavor, and freshly snipped cilantro. Cover it up and chill in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

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

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delightful addition to any meal. It’s versatile and pairs well with various dishes, making it a crowd-pleaser at gatherings.

As a Standalone Dish

• Serve it chilled as a refreshing side dish on hot summer days.

At Barbecues

• Pair it with grilled chicken or beef for a complete meal that balances flavors beautifully.

For Picnics

• Pack it in portable containers for easy serving outdoors. Its creamy texture and zesty taste elevate any picnic spread.

With Tortilla Chips

• Offer alongside crunchy tortilla chips for a fun twist on traditional dips and salads.

As Part of a Potluck

• Bring this salad to share at potlucks; it’s sure to be a hit among guests looking for something unique and tasty.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Making the perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some helpful tips:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh corn and quality cheeses enhance the flavor significantly.
• Adjust spice level: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of jalapeño or Tajín.
• Chill before serving: Letting the salad chill allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Mix well: Ensure even distribution of dressing and ingredients for every bite.
• Add more lime juice: A splash of lime juice can brighten flavors if needed.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This pasta salad complements many side dishes, making meal planning easier. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus lightly seasoned and grilled add a smoky flavor.
2. Black Bean Salad: A protein-packed option that provides a hearty contrast to the creamy pasta salad.
3. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip that pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips alongside the salad.
4. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with cilantro and lime enhances the Mexican flavor theme.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with quinoa, beans, and spices offer a colorful and nutritious addition.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can balance the richness of the pasta salad perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using uncooked corn: Fresh corn should be roasted or grilled for the best flavor. Always cook it before adding to your salad for a sweet, smoky taste.
• Skipping the chill time: Not letting the salad sit in the fridge can lead to a bland dish. Chill for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
• Overdoing the dressing: Adding too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with half and add more if needed after mixing.
• Ignoring seasoning: Not tasting for seasoning can leave your salad flat. Add salt, pepper, or more Tajín gradually until it’s just right.
• Forgetting about garnishes: Leaving out fresh cilantro or cheese toppings can make your dish less appealing. Always finish with a sprinkle of these for added flavor and presentation.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Not recommended as freezing may alter texture.
• If necessary, consume within 1 month.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat until warm, but not too dry.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat on low heat while stirring until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad:

How can I customize my Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

You can add black beans, diced bell peppers, or avocado for extra flavor and nutrition. Experiment with different cheese options too!

What type of pasta works best?

Trotolle pasta is ideal due to its shape, which holds onto the dressing and ingredients well. However, you can substitute with rotini or fusilli if needed.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad actually tastes better when made a day in advance as flavors develop overnight.

Is this salad gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta alternatives available in stores.

What is Tajín and how do I use it?

Tajín is a popular Mexican seasoning made from chili peppers, lime, and salt. Use it to add a zesty kick to your dish; start with a small amount and adjust according to taste.

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is not only easy to prepare but also brings a burst of flavor that everyone will enjoy. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on personal preferences or seasonal produce. Give this recipe a try at your next gathering; it’s sure to impress!