Irresistible Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

The first bite of Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is like a fiesta in your mouth. Imagine sweet corn kissed by charred edges, creamy dressing dancing with zesty lime, and hints of chili that bring the heat—now tell me that doesn’t sound like the best thing since sliced bread! It’s vibrant, colorful, and downright irresistible; a dish that’ll have you singing “La Cucaracha” while you devour it.

This pasta salad isn’t just food; it’s a celebration! Picture warm summer evenings with friends gathered around, laughter echoing as this dish steals the show on your picnic table. The delightful crunch of corn mingles with tender pasta, creating memories that stick. Whether you’re at a potluck or just trying to impress your family, this salad promises to make any occasion feel like a holiday.

Ingredients for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Elbow Macaroni: About 8 ounces will do nicely; small pasta shapes hold the dressing well.

• Fresh Corn: You can use about 2 cups of grilled corn; it adds sweetness and texture.

• Red Onion: A small diced red onion gives a crunchy bite and vibrant color to the salad.

• Chili Powder: Use about 1 teaspoon for that authentic street corn flavor; adjust based on your spice preference.

For the Dressing:

• Sour Cream: About half a cup creates a rich base for your dressing.

• Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed juice from one lime brings brightness and acidity to balance flavors.

• Cilantro: A handful of chopped fresh cilantro adds freshness; feel free to omit if cilantro isn’t your jam.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Toss in about 8 ounces of elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking; set aside.

Step 2: Grill the Corn

If you’re feeling fancy, grill about two cups of fresh corn until charred. If not, canned or frozen corn can be used too! Just drain and thaw them before adding.

Step 3: Mix the Veggies

In a large bowl, combine your cooked macaroni with the grilled corn (or alternative), one small diced red onion, and one teaspoon of chili powder. Stir gently until everything is evenly mixed.

Step 4: Whisk the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together half a cup of sour cream with juice from one lime until smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste before folding in freshly chopped cilantro.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour the dressing over your pasta mixture and toss until all ingredients are coated evenly in creamy goodness. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary—don’t be shy!

Step 6: Chill & Serve

Cover your bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This helps flavors meld beautifully. When ready to serve, give it another quick stir!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional lime juice if desired for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every delightful bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the pasta until al dente while you grill or char the corn for that smoky flavor. Mix the dressing in a separate bowl to save time, then combine everything in one big bowl for easy serving.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences! Try adding black beans for protein, jalapeños for heat, or even avocado for creaminess. The possibilities are endless!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To enjoy later, simply serve cold or reheat gently on the stove. Just add a splash of lime juice to refresh the flavors!

There was that one time I made this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad for a family reunion. Everyone raved about it, and I felt like a culinary superstar—until my cousin asked if I could make it every week!

FAQs

What ingredients are needed for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

To prepare Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, you will need pasta, corn (fresh or canned), mayonnaise, lime juice, cilantro, cotija cheese, chili powder, and jalapeños. These ingredients come together to create a delicious dish that is perfect for summer gatherings or potlucks. You can also customize the salad by adding bell peppers or avocados for extra flavor and texture.

How long can I store Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will meld together over time, making it even more delicious! However, if you add ingredients like avocado, it’s best to consume the salad within a day to prevent browning. Always give it a good stir before serving if it’s been stored.

Can I make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, making Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad ahead of time allows the flavors to develop fully. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to keep any delicate ingredients like avocado separate until serving to maintain their freshness. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or entertaining guests.

What makes this pasta salad different from traditional pasta salads?

The unique aspect of Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad lies in its vibrant flavors inspired by elote, or Mexican street corn. The combination of creamy mayonnaise, tangy lime juice, fresh cilantro, and spicy chili powder creates a zesty twist that sets it apart from traditional pasta salads. It’s not only refreshing but also offers a delightful crunch from the corn and other vegetables.

Conclusion for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the classic elements of pasta with the bold tastes of Mexican cuisine. By using fresh ingredients like corn, lime juice, and cilantro, this salad stands out at any gathering. Remember that it can be made ahead of time for added convenience and best enjoyed chilled. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for an easy side dish, this pasta salad is sure to impress your guests!

Print

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings the lively flavors of classic Mexican street corn right to your picnic table. With sweet grilled corn, zesty lime, and creamy dressing mingling with tender elbow macaroni, this salad is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Ideal for summer barbecues and potlucks, it’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups fresh or grilled corn
• 1 small red onion, diced
• 1 tsp chili powder
• ½ cup sour cream
• Juice of 1 lime
• A handful of fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Cook elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water; set aside.
2. Grill or char corn until slightly blackened. If using canned or frozen corn, drain and thaw.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, corn, diced red onion, and chili powder; mix gently.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together sour cream and lime juice until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Pour dressing over the pasta mixture; toss until evenly coated.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 370mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 41g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 20mg