Get ready to experience a burst of flavors with Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad! This vibrant dish beautifully combines the sweet crunch of corn, juicy cherry tomatoes, and the creamy goodness of cotija cheese, all dressed in a zesty sauce. Perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or any gathering, it brings the fun of street food right to your table. A colorful salad that looks as good as it tastes is sure to impress your friends and family.

The sensory experience of this dish is truly delightful. Each bite is a delightful blend of textures and tastes, from the crisp veggies to the creamy dressing, finished with a dash of chili powder for a hint of warmth. In this article, you’ll find everything you need to create this delicious pasta salad, including simple ingredients, easy-to-follow steps, and tips for serving. Let’s dive right into the details!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh Ingredients: Bursting with fresh corn, tomatoes, and herbs.
Ease of Preparation: Quick and simple steps make it a breeze.
Nutrition: Packed with vitamins and protein from quality ingredients.
Versatility: Great for any gathering or as a side dish.
Presentation: Bright colors and textures that wow the eyes.

This recipe is sure to become a favorite!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes

Ingredients You’ll Need

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

How To Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Cook the pasta in salted water until al dente according to package instructions; drain and rinse with cold water.
Prepare the corn (grill fresh corn and cut kernels off the cob, or use frozen/canned corn).
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper to make the 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 well coated.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
Serve chilled, with additional lime wedges if desired.

How to Serve

Presentation: Use a colorful bowl to enhance the dish’s visual appeal.
Accompaniments: Pair with grilled meats or tacos for a fiesta vibe.
Portions: Serve as a side or a light main dish for lunch.
Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a refreshing lemonade or iced tea.

This salad is a hit no matter how you choose to serve it!

Additional Tips

Flavor Enhancement: Add sliced jalapeños for extra heat.
Customization: Swap out elbow macaroni for quinoa or whole wheat pasta.
Serving Suggestions: Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges for a fresh touch.

Recipe Variations

Spicy Version: Add diced avocado and jalapeños for a kick.
Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika in the dressing for a deep flavor.
Creamy Options: Substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Keep in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Not recommended, as pasta salads do not freeze well. Best enjoyed fresh!

Special Equipment

Large pot for boiling pasta
Strainer for draining pasta
Mixing bowls for combining ingredients
Whisk for the dressing
Cutting board and knife
Airtight container for storage

FAQ’s

1. Can I use frozen corn?
Yes! Frozen corn works perfectly and saves time.

2. Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely, it contains no meat, just delicious veggies and cheese.

3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! It can be made several hours in advance; just chill before serving.

4. How can I customize the flavors?
Feel free to add black beans, avocado, or different herbs for a twist.

5. Are there alternative cooking methods?
You can grill the corn for added flavor or use a pasta cooker.

Conclusion

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a fantastic blend of fresh flavors, vibrant colors, and healthy ingredients. Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or a simple weeknight meal, this salad brings a taste of summer to your table any time of year. Get ready to enjoy this delicious dish, and don’t hesitate to make it your own! Happy cooking!