Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that brings summer to your plate. Loaded with roasted corn, Cotija cheese, and a creamy dressing, it offers a refreshing twist on traditional pasta salads. Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or as a side at any gathering, this dish is sure to impress. With its vibrant ingredients and a kick from jalapeños, this salad stands out as a crowd favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavors: The combination of roasted corn, cheeses, and spices creates an explosion of taste in every bite.
• Quick to Prepare: In just 23 minutes, you can whip up this delicious salad that serves 10 people.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a side dish or light meal; it’s perfect for summer gatherings and BBQs.
• Fresh Ingredients: Made with wholesome ingredients like lime juice and cilantro for that fresh touch.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its colorful presentation and flavorful profile, it’s guaranteed to be a hit at any event.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad successfully, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help streamline the preparation process for a seamless cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the pasta quickly and evenly.
• Strainer: Helps drain the pasta efficiently after cooking.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Ideal for blending the creamy dressing smoothly.

Ingredients

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is loaded with roasted corn, Cotija and cheddar, 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

For Garnish

• Freshly snipped cilantro
• Tajín

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Boil the trotolle pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted water.
1. Drain the pasta once cooked.
2. Rinse it under cold water to cool it down.
3. Place the cooled pasta into a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

Cut the kernels off each of the roasted corn cobs.
– Add the fresh corn to the bowl with pasta.

Step 3: Combine Vegetables and Cheese

Add diced red onion and jalapeño pepper to the pasta mixture.
– Incorporate 1/2 cup each of cheddar cheese and Cotija cheese into the bowl.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a separate small bowl:
1. Whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and Tajín (start with 1 teaspoon).
2. Adjust seasoning by adding more Tajín if desired.
3. Pour this dressing over the pasta mixture and stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Garnish and Chill

Top your salad with remaining cheeses along with extra Tajín and freshly snipped cilantro.
– Cover the salad tightly and place it in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.

Now you have a flavorful Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad that’s perfect for sharing! Enjoy every bite of this vibrant dish at your next gathering or picnic.

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a perfect dish for summer gatherings, picnics, or barbecues. It’s both flavorful and colorful, making it an attractive addition to any table.

As a Standalone Dish

• Serve chilled as a refreshing side that stands out on its own.
• Perfect for lunch with added grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.

With Grilled Meats

• Pair with grilled steaks or chicken for a delicious contrast in flavors.
• The creamy dressing complements the smoky taste of charred meats.

At Potlucks and BBQs

• Bring this salad to share at potlucks; it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
• Its vibrant colors and textures will attract guests’ attention.

As a Topping for Tacos

• Use this pasta salad as a unique topping for tacos.
• Adds a creamy, crunchy element that enhances traditional taco flavors.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

To ensure your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad reaches its full potential, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients – Fresh corn and ripe jalapeños greatly enhance the salad’s flavor.
• Adjust Spiciness – Modify the amount of jalapeño and Tajín based on your heat preference.
• Chill Before Serving – Letting the salad chill allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Add Extra Lime Juice – A splash of lime juice right before serving can brighten up the dish.
• Mix Cheeses – Combining Cotija and cheddar provides a nice balance of creaminess and sharpness.
• Garnish Generously – Don’t skimp on cilantro and Tajín; they add freshness and zing.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This pasta salad pairs well with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Grilled Vegetable Skewers – A colorful mix of seasonal vegetables adds great texture and flavor.
2. Chips and Guacamole – The creamy guacamole contrasts nicely with the pasta salad’s texture.
3. Black Bean Salsa – This protein-packed salsa offers a refreshing twist alongside the salad.
4. Cilantro Lime Rice – Light, zesty rice enhances the overall Mexican theme of your meal.
5. Stuffed Peppers – Filled with quinoa or rice, they make for a hearty side that complements the pasta salad.
6. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful balance to the savory notes of the salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Not cooling the pasta properly: If you don’t rinse the pasta with cold water after cooking, it can become mushy. Make sure to drain and rinse it thoroughly to keep a perfect texture.
• Ignoring the cheese proportions: Using too much or too little cheese can affect the salad’s creaminess and flavor. Stick to the recommended amounts for an ideal taste balance.
• Overdressing the salad: Adding too much dressing can turn your pasta salad soggy. Start with less and add more gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
• Forgetting to taste as you go: Skipping taste tests can lead to a bland dish. Always sample your salad before serving and adjust seasonings accordingly.
• Using unroasted corn: Fresh corn is great, but roasting enhances its sweetness and flavor. Always opt for roasted corn for this recipe.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure it’s cooled completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Not recommended; freezing can change the texture of the ingredients.
• If necessary, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month, but expect changes in quality upon thawing.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or dressing to a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant dish that combines pasta with roasted corn, cheese, and creamy dressing inspired by traditional elote flavors.

Can I customize my Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Yes! You can add diced bell peppers, black beans, or even protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for extra nutrition and flavor.

How do I make this dish spicier?

To increase the heat level, use more jalapeños or add diced serrano peppers. You could also incorporate hot sauce into the dressing.

How should I serve Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

This salad is perfect as a side dish at barbecues, picnics, or summer gatherings. It pairs well with grilled meats and fresh salads.

Final Thoughts

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for warm-weather gatherings or as a quick side dish during busy weeknights. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients to make it uniquely yours! Enjoy this flavorful twist on a classic pasta salad!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 23 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 10 people 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer. This pasta salad features a delightful mix of roasted corn, creamy Cotija and cheddar cheeses, and zesty jalapeños, all enveloped in a smooth dressing that combines mayonnaise and lime juice. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, enjoying a picnic, or looking for a refreshing side dish, this salad is sure to impress your guests with its bold flavors and colorful presentation. With easy preparation and wholesome ingredients, it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings excitement to any gathering.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound trotolle pasta
• 6 ears roasted corn
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1/2 cup diced jalapeño pepper
• 3/4 cup finely shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 3/4 cup finely shredded Cotija cheese (divided)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1–2 teaspoons Tajín

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Boil the trotolle pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain and cool under cold water.
2. Cut kernels from the roasted corn cobs and combine with the cooled pasta in a large mixing bowl.
3. Add diced red onion, jalapeños, and half of each cheese to the bowl.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and Tajín. Pour over the pasta mix and stir well.
5. Top with remaining cheeses and garnish with cilantro before chilling in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 13 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 25mg