Name: Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 8 ounces elbow macaroni; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped; 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup sour cream; 2 tablespoons lime juice; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste

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mexican street corn pasta salad if you re looking — Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad 9

Why Make This Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that brings sunshine to your table, this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is it! It’s vibrant, packed with fresh ingredients, and perfect for warm days or gatherings. This recipe takes the classic flavors of elote, or Mexican street corn, and gives it a delightful twist by combining it with pasta. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also a great way to share a burst of flavor with family and friends.

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Ingredients:

8 ounces elbow macaroni
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Cook the pasta in salted water until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
Prepare the corn by grilling fresh corn and cutting the kernels off the cob, or use frozen/canned corn for a quick option.
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper to create your dressing.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and cotija cheese.
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Serve chilled, with additional lime wedges if desired.

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This colorful salad can be served as a main dish or as a side at barbecues, picnics, or family dinners. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can stand alone as a hearty vegetarian option. Just plate it up, and watch everyone enjoy the fresh, zesty flavors.

How to Store Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

To keep leftovers fresh, store any unused salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making it a tasty option for lunch the next day.

Tips to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

If you want a smoky flavor, try grilling the corn instead of boiling or steaming it.
For extra crunch, consider adding diced bell peppers or jalapeños.
Make sure to rinse the pasta in cold water after cooking to stop the cooking process and keep it from getting mushy.
Add more lime juice for extra zest or adjust the chili powder according to your heat preference.

Variation

You can customize this salad easily! Try substituting the elbow macaroni with any pasta shape you prefer. You can also swap out the cotija cheese for feta if that’s what you have on hand. For a vegan option, use plant-based mayo and sour cream.

mexican street corn pasta salad if you re looking 1 — Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad 10

FAQs

Can I use different pasta for the Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you enjoy, like penne or fusilli. The texture might change a bit, but the flavor will still shine through in this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad.

How long can I keep Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad in the fridge?

You can store the Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3 days. It’s great for leftovers and the flavors enhance over time!

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, making it a few hours or the night before allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish tacos, or any barbecued meat. It’s a great side dish that complements many summer meals!

Conclusion

I encourage you to try making this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad. It’s a delightful mix of flavors that can spark joy at any meal. Remember the warmth of family gatherings and shared moments around the table as you create it. For more comforting recipes that nurture the soul, follow me on Pinterest and Medium!