Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This quick and easy Mexican street corn pasta salad is a delightful dish bursting with flavor. Loaded with savory charred corn, creamy cotija cheese, and a zesty chipotle lime dressing, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch or serving it as a side for taco night, this salad will surely impress your guests and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of charred corn, spicy jalapeño, and tangy lime creates a taste that’s vibrant and satisfying.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it on its own or as a side dish – this salad complements a variety of meals, from barbecues to casual weeknight dinners.
• Fresh Ingredients: Made with seasonal produce like fresh corn and cilantro, this recipe highlights the best flavors of summer.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its appealing colors and rich flavors, it’s sure to be a hit at gatherings or potlucks.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather these essential tools before starting your Mexican street corn pasta salad.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Skillet: Perfect for charring the corn to enhance its natural sweetness.
• Mixing bowl: Allows you to combine all ingredients thoroughly for an even distribution of flavors.

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Ingredients

For this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, gather the following ingredients:

Pasta

• 2 cups ditalini pasta (uncooked) (or any small pasta shape)

Vegetables and Herbs

• Diamond Crystal kosher salt
• 2-3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (enough to coat the skillet)
• 3 cups fresh corn kernels (about 4-6 ears total)
• fresh cracked black pepper (to taste)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced or grated)
• 1/2 of a fresh jalapeño (minced, seeds and ribs removed)
• 1 bunch cilantro (finely chopped, reserve some for garnish)
• 1 bunch scallions (sliced, reserve some for garnish)

Dairy and Dressings

• 1/4 cup cotija cheese (crumbled, reserve some for garnish)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayo

Spices and Juices

• 2 whole chipotle peppers (packed in adobo)
• 1/3 cup fresh lime juice (plus the zest of 1 of the limes)
• Diamond Crystal kosher salt
• fresh cracked black pepper

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil water in a large pot. Add Diamond Crystal kosher salt to season. Once boiling, add ditalini pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

Step 2: Char the Corn

In a skillet over medium-high heat, add extra virgin olive oil. Once hot, add fresh corn kernels. Season with salt and pepper. Sauté until they are lightly charred (about 5–7 minutes). Add minced garlic and jalapeño; cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayo, chipotle peppers, lime juice, lime zest, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, charred corn mixture, cilantro, scallions, cotija cheese. Pour dressing over; stir gently until everything is well-coated.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Transfer the pasta salad to a serving dish. Garnish with reserved cilantro, scallions, and cotija cheese. Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for later!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This Mexican street corn pasta salad is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main course or as a side, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

As a Main Dish

• Chilled Delight: Serve the pasta salad cold for a refreshing lunch option, perfect for warm days.
• Taco Night Star: Pair it with your favorite tacos to create a festive and flavorful meal.

With Grilled Proteins

• Grilled Chicken: Complement the salad with grilled chicken breasts marinated in lime for added zest.
• Beef Skewers: Offer skewered beef alongside the salad for a hearty combination that will satisfy meat lovers.

As a Side Dish

• With BBQ Ribs: This pasta salad pairs wonderfully with BBQ ribs, bringing a creamy contrast to smoky flavors.
• At Picnics: Pack it into portable containers for an easy and delicious picnic side.

Garnished Options

• Extra Cilantro: Top each serving with additional cilantro for freshness.
• Cotija Crumbles: Add more cotija cheese on top just before serving for an extra cheesy experience.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

To ensure your Mexican street corn pasta salad turns out perfectly every time, consider these simple yet effective tips.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook the ditalini pasta until it’s just al dente. This helps maintain its texture when mixed with other ingredients.
• Use Fresh Corn: Fresh corn kernels provide the best flavor and texture. If fresh isn’t available, frozen corn can work in a pinch.
• Balance Flavors: Adjust the lime juice and chipotle peppers according to your taste preferences. More lime adds brightness, while extra peppers increase heat.
• Mix Well: Toss all ingredients thoroughly so that each bite is packed with flavor and texture.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Garnish Creatively: Use additional herbs or sprinkles of cotija cheese on top before serving to enhance presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Enhance your meal by pairing this vibrant pasta salad with complementary side dishes. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Grilled Veggies: A medley of seasonal vegetables tossed in olive oil and grilled until tender makes a colorful addition.
2. Spicy Black Beans: Seasoned black beans add protein and spice, making them a perfect partner for this salad.
3. Avocado Salsa: A fresh avocado salsa brings creaminess and coolness that balances well with the spicy notes of the salad.
4. Corn Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips provide a delightful contrast and can be used to scoop up the pasta salad.
5. Watermelon Feta Salad: This refreshing fruit salad offers sweetness that complements the savory elements of the main dish.
6. Mexican Quinoa Salad: A nutritious option that includes quinoa, black beans, and veggies, providing additional textures and flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad from good to great. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Using overcooked pasta: Overcooking ditalini pasta can lead to a mushy texture. Always follow the package instructions and taste for doneness before draining.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season properly can make the salad bland. Taste as you go, adding salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
• Skipping the garlic: Garlic adds a wonderful depth of flavor. Don’t skip it! Use fresh minced garlic for the best results.
• Not letting it chill: Serving the salad immediately can diminish the flavors. Allow it to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
• Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using wilted herbs or old corn can compromise taste. Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep in a cool part of your fridge to maintain freshness.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.
• Consider separating into individual servings for easy thawing.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on high in short bursts, stirring between each until warmed evenly.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad:

What is Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant dish combining pasta with charred corn, savory toppings, and a zesty dressing that captures classic street corn flavors.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While ditalini is recommended, feel free to substitute with any small pasta shape you prefer, such as macaroni or shells.

How do I customize my Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

You can add diced bell peppers, black beans, or even avocado for extra flavor and nutrition. The recipe is versatile!

How long does this salad last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this salad will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor and texture. It’s perfect as a refreshing side dish or a light lunch option. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins for added variety. Enjoy making this delicious recipe!