Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on the classic elote salad! This vibrant dish combines the flavors of grilled corn, creamy dressing, and fresh herbs, making it an ideal side for barbecues, potlucks, or any festive gathering. Its unique blend of ingredients ensures every bite bursts with flavor, while the pasta adds a satisfying heartiness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This pasta salad comes together quickly, making it a perfect choice for busy cooks.
• Bold Flavors: The combination of grilled corn, feta cheese, and spices creates a deliciously rich taste that everyone will love.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer cookout or a family gathering, this dish fits right in.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins to make it your own!
• Make Ahead Option: It can be prepared in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, gather your essential kitchen tools. These tools will help streamline your cooking process and ensure perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the pasta evenly to achieve that perfect al dente texture.
• Grill or grill pan: Adds depth of flavor to the corn with those beautiful char marks.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining all the ingredients without mess.

Ingredients

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delicious and easy spin on your classic elote salad! Perfect for your next cookout!

For the Pasta and Corn

• 1/2 lb radiatori pasta, cooked al dente
• 6 ears of grilled corn, kernels cut off

For the Dressing and Flavorings

• 3/4 cup mayo
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

For Additional Flavor

• 1/3 cup red onion, diced
• 1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled (more if desired)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook the radiatori pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Rinse with cold water to cool it down and drain thoroughly. Place in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Grill the Corn

While the pasta is cooling, grill your corn until it’s charred and tender. Once done, cut off the kernels and add them to the bowl with the pasta.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In the same bowl, add mayo, crumbled feta cheese, chopped cilantro, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, paprika, kosher salt, black pepper, diced red onion, and cotija cheese.

Step 4: Mix Together

Stir everything well until combined. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning as needed by adding more lime juice or salt if desired.

Step 5: Serve

Serve immediately! Garnish with additional fresh cilantro, diced red onion, extra cotija cheese if you like it cheesy, and serve with lime wedges on the side. Enjoy your vibrant Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that can shine at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or attending a potluck, this salad can be served in various delightful ways.

As a Standalone Dish

• This pasta salad makes for a filling main dish when served on its own, especially during warm weather.

As a Side Dish

• Pair it with grilled meats or fish for a refreshing complement. The flavors of the corn and spices enhance the overall meal experience.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Scoop the pasta salad into crisp lettuce leaves for a low-carb option. It provides a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy salad.

With Tortilla Chips

• Serve the salad alongside tortilla chips for a fun twist! Guests can scoop up the pasta salad as they would with salsa.

As Part of a Taco Bar

• Incorporate this salad into a taco bar setup. It pairs perfectly with various proteins and toppings, offering guests another delicious option.

Garnished with Lime Wedges

• Provide lime wedges on the side. A fresh squeeze of lime juice just before serving enhances the flavors even further.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Perfecting your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad involves attention to detail and ingredient quality. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn, herbs, and vegetables will enhance the flavor significantly compared to canned options.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of chili powder and paprika based on your heat preference.
• Let It Chill: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving helps meld all the flavors together.
• Add Texture: Consider including chopped bell peppers or diced jalapeños for an extra crunch and flavor boost.
• Experiment with Cheeses: While feta and cotija are traditional, feel free to try other cheeses like queso fresco for different textures and tastes.
• Use High-Quality Mayo: The mayonnaise is key in this recipe; choose one that you enjoy eating on its own for best results.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

When serving Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, consider pairing it with these delightful side dishes that enhance your meal’s overall appeal.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken marinated in spices complements the flavors of the salad perfectly.
2. Black Bean Salsa: A refreshing salsa made with black beans, tomatoes, and onions adds protein and color.
3. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole brings richness and pairs wonderfully with both tacos and pasta salads.
4. Chips and Salsa: Traditional tortilla chips served with zesty salsa provide crunch and flavor contrast.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and nutrition alongside this vibrant pasta salad.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a hearty side that balances well with spicy dishes.
7. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with cilantro and lime is another flavorful option that ties in nicely with Mexican cuisine.
8. Fruit Skewers: Refreshing fruit skewers add sweetness to your meal and are perfect for cooling down on warm days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the pasta too long, it will become mushy. Aim for al dente to ensure a perfect bite.
• Not seasoning enough: Skipping on salt or spices can leave your salad bland. Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
• Using ungrilled corn: Fresh corn is essential for that authentic elote flavor. Always grill or roast your corn for the best taste.
• Skipping the chilling time: Serving immediately may result in a less cohesive flavor. Letting it chill allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Not adding lime juice: Lime juice brightens up the dish. Don’t forget to include it; it enhances the freshness of the salad.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep it refrigerated at all times to maintain freshness.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

• This salad is not recommended for freezing as the texture of pasta and veggies may change.
• If you must freeze, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month, but expect some loss in quality.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm in a covered dish for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warmed through, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is an easy-to-make dish that combines pasta with grilled corn and classic elote flavors, such as lime and cheese.

How long does Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad last?

The salad will last about 3 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I customize my Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like black beans, diced avocado, or even jalapeños for extra spice according to your taste preferences.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, this specific recipe uses radiatori pasta which contains gluten. However, you can substitute with gluten-free pasta if needed.

What dishes pair well with Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

This delicious salad complements grilled meats, tacos, or can be served as part of a potluck spread.

Final Thoughts

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is not only vibrant and flavorful but also versatile enough to suit various occasions. Its fresh ingredients allow for customization based on personal taste. Whether you’re preparing for a cookout or a family gathering, this dish is sure to impress! Try it out and let your creativity shine!