Street Corn Pasta Salad

Street corn pasta salad is a delightful dish that combines the flavors of roasted corn with tender pasta, fresh herbs, and a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or casual family dinners, this salad brings a unique twist to your typical pasta dish. The smoky notes from the roasted corn paired with the creamy dressing make it an irresistible treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare – With simple ingredients and quick steps, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor – The combination of lime, smoked paprika, and roasted corn creates a refreshing taste that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish – This salad works great as a side or main course, making it suitable for any occasion.
• Customizable Ingredients – Feel free to adjust the spices or add your favorite vegetables to make it your own.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Make it ahead of time and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your street corn pasta salad, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will simplify your cooking process and ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Frying pan
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot – Necessary for boiling pasta evenly, ensuring it’s cooked just right.
• Frying pan – Ideal for roasting corn, allowing for even charring that enhances flavor.
• Knife – An essential tool for chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients efficiently.
• Mixing bowl – Helps combine all ingredients thoroughly, making sure every bite is flavorful.

Ingredients

Street corn pasta salad features tender noodles, roasted corn, and a bunch of herbs all tossed in a tangy, smoky lime sauce.

For the Pasta Base

• about 400g of pasta

For the Corn

• 2 roasted corn cobs

For Freshness & Flavor

• 3 green onions
• 1 shallot
• 2 jalapeno
• 1/2 cup cilantro

For Creaminess

• 1 cup cotija cheese

For the Dressing

• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayo
• 3 cloves garlic
• juice and zest of 1 lime

For Seasoning

• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp salt & pepper

How to Make Street Corn Pasta Salad

Step 1: Roast the Corn

Start by husking your corn and roasting it. I fried mine on a pan with olive oil for about 10-15 minutes, making sure to rotate every couple minutes. Once cooked take a knife or peeler to separate the kernels from the cob.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add in your pasta. Cook until al dente, strain and set aside. (Tip: drizzle some olive oil and toss to prevent pasta sticking.)

Step 3: Prepare Other Ingredients

Prep your other ingredients: thinly slice the green onion, finely mince the shallot, garlic, jalapeno, and cilantro, and crumble/grate the cotija cheese. Zest and juice 1 lime.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

Make the dressing by combining sour cream, mayo, minced garlic, lime zest and juice, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt and pepper.

Step 5: Assemble Your Salad

All that’s left to do is assemble. Start by adding your cooked pasta to a large bowl along with the roasted corn, green onions, shallot, jalapeno, cilantro, and cotija cheese. Pour the dressing over top and mix well. Top with more cotija and fresh herbs if desired and enjoy!

How to Serve Street Corn Pasta Salad

Street corn pasta salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s perfect for sharing. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a casual lunch, this salad can be served in various delightful ways.

As a Standalone Dish

• This salad can be enjoyed on its own as a light lunch or dinner option. The combination of pasta, corn, and creamy dressing makes it filling yet refreshing.

With Grilled Protein

• Pair your street corn pasta salad with grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak. The smoky flavors of the protein complement the tangy lime sauce beautifully.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a fun twist, serve the salad in crisp lettuce leaves. This adds a crunchy texture and makes for an easy-to-eat finger food option.

Topped with Avocado

• Add slices of ripe avocado on top for extra creaminess and healthy fats. This pairing elevates the dish and enhances its flavor profile.

How to Perfect Street Corn Pasta Salad

To make your street corn pasta salad truly shine, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables will brighten up the dish and elevate its taste.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of jalapeno based on your heat preference. You can even omit it for a milder version.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your pasta is cooked al dente to maintain a nice bite and prevent mushiness in the salad.
• Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This melds the flavors together wonderfully.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t hold back on garnishing with additional cotija cheese and fresh herbs for added flavor and visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Street Corn Pasta Salad

To round out your meal featuring street corn pasta salad, consider these delicious side dishes that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Grilled Vegetables: A medley of zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus tossed in olive oil and grilled until tender.
2. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Roasted corn on the cob slathered with mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime—an excellent flavor match.
3. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice that adds protein and texture.
4. Guacamole with Tortilla Chips: Creamy guacamole served with crispy tortilla chips provides a delightful crunch alongside the pasta salad.
5. Chips & Salsa: A classic combination! Serve crunchy tortilla chips with homemade or store-bought salsa for dipping.
6. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with lime juice and fresh cilantro pairs well with the bold flavors of your pasta salad.
7. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits adds a sweet contrast to the savory elements of the meal.
8. Stuffed Avocados: Half avocados filled with tuna or chicken salad offer healthy fats while keeping your meal balanced and satisfying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making street corn pasta salad can be simple, but some common mistakes can ruin your dish. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Not Roasting the Corn: Skipping the roasting process means missing out on the sweet, smoky flavor that enhances the salad. Always roast your corn for the best taste.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta too long can make it mushy. Aim for al dente to maintain a pleasant texture in your salad.
• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using dried herbs instead of fresh ones reduces flavor. Always opt for fresh cilantro and green onions for a vibrant taste.
• Ignoring Lime Zest: Leaving out lime zest removes a layer of flavor. Zesting the lime adds brightness and enhances the dressing’s overall taste.
• Forgetting to Mix Well: Not mixing all ingredients thoroughly can lead to uneven flavors. Ensure you blend everything well for a balanced taste in every bite.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The salad is best consumed within 3-4 days.

Freezing Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Freezing is not recommended as pasta may become mushy when thawed.
• If necessary, freeze only the dressing separately.

Reheating Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 15 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t dry out.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about street corn pasta salad:

What is Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Street corn pasta salad combines traditional Mexican street corn flavors with pasta, creating a delicious side dish or light meal.

Can I make Street Corn Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare up to a day ahead and store in the fridge. This allows flavors to meld together nicely.

How can I customize my Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Feel free to add diced bell peppers or swap cotija cheese with feta for a different taste. You can also adjust spice levels by adding more jalapenos.

Is Street Corn Pasta Salad vegetarian?

Yes! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly and packed with fresh vegetables.

What can I serve with Street Corn Pasta Salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled meats, tacos, or as part of a summer barbecue spread.

Final Thoughts

Street corn pasta salad is a delightful combination of flavors that brings joy to any meal. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your preferences. Whether you’re serving it at a picnic or enjoying it as a quick dinner, this dish promises satisfaction with every bite!