Easy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

Easy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe: A Flavorsome Fiesta in a Bowl 🌽🍝🎉

1. Introduction to Easy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Welcome to a culinary adventure with our Easy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe! This vibrant dish brings together the rich, smoky flavors reminiscent of authentic Mexican street corn (elote) and combines it with the satisfying heartiness of pasta for a refreshing meal that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or simply as a delightful side dish. If you’re a fan of bold flavors, definitely give this Easy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad a try! Packed with sweet corn kernels, juicy cherry tomatoes bursting with flavor, and a zesty lime dressing that ties everything together, this salad is not only simple to prepare, making it a go-to for busy weeknights, but also a feast for the eyes and taste buds. Looking for more easy salad ideas? Check out our salad recipes! Let’s dive into the delightful world of flavors and textures that make this unique recipe a must-try! You can also find a similar recipe at What Great Grandma Ate.

2. Ingredients for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

To create this mouthwatering Easy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, you’ll need the following fresh ingredients. Using high-quality ingredients will truly elevate the taste of this pasta salad:

• 2 cups of cooked pasta (fusilli or elbow macaroni work best – for gluten-free, use a rice-based pasta)
• 1 can (15 oz) of sweet corn, drained (or grilled corn kernels cut off the cob for extra flavor)
• 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved (or roughly chopped Roma tomatoes)
• ½ cup of red onion, finely chopped (or substitute with green onions for a milder flavor)
• 1 avocado, diced (add right before serving to prevent browning)
• 1 lime, juiced (about 2 tablespoons – use fresh lime juice for the best taste)
• ¼ cup of mayonnaise (for a lighter option, use Greek yogurt or a combination of both)
• 1 tsp of chili powder (adjust to your spice preference – smoked paprika is also delicious)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish (adds a burst of freshness)

3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by cooking your pasta as per package instructions until it is al dente. Overcooked pasta will become mushy and undesirable in the salad. Once cooked, immediately drain and rinse with cold water. This step is crucial as it helps to cool the pasta quickly and prevent it from sticking together and becoming mushy. Cooling it down will also stop the cooking process. Next, chop all your vegetables: halve the cherry tomatoes, finely chop the red onion, dice the avocado (remember to do this just before mixing), and chop the fresh cilantro. Measure out all your resulting ingredients on a kitchen counter for easy access. While you’re at it, perhaps you’d like to try our Easy Lipton Onion Soup Potatoes!

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the cooled cooked pasta, drained sweet corn, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and diced avocado, if ready to serve immediately. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), chili powder, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed – you might want to add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity. Pour this delicious creamy dressing over the ingredients in the large bowl and gently mix until everything is thoroughly and evenly well coated. Be careful not to overmix, especially with the avocado, to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Step 3: Chill and Serve Your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Once the pasta salad is well mixed, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but preferably an hour or two. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. The longer it sits, the more flavorful the salad will become! The flavors will deepen as they sit and the pasta will absorb the dressing ever so slightly. Once ready to serve, use a spoon to scoop out generous servings and relish the creamy textures, fresh aroma, and vibrant colors. This Mexican Street Corn inspired recipe is a treat!

Step 4: Garnish and Enjoy!

Before serving, give your Easy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad a final touch by garnishing it generously with freshly chopped cilantro. This not only adds a beautiful pop of green but also enhances the fresh and vibrant flavors of your salad. You can also add a sprinkle of cotija cheese or crumbled queso fresco for an authentic Mexican flair. Serve it chilled straight from the fridge, or at room temperature if preferred, as it pairs perfectly with grilled meats such as chicken or shrimp, or as a satisfying standalone dish for summer gatherings. Consider using Homemade Flaky Croissants as your side.

4. Storage Tips for Your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

If you happen to have any leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), it is important to properly store your delicious pasta salad to maintain its quality and prevent spoilage. Store your leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to three days. Be sure to give it a good stir before serving again, as the creamy dressing may thicken slightly over time. Adding a splash of lime juice or a small amount of water can help to re-emulsify the dressing and restore its original consistency.

5. Serving Suggestions for Your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Our Easy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is not only incredibly delicious but also remarkably versatile! Serve it as a vibrant and flavorful side dish at your next barbecue, paired perfectly with grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp for a complete and satisfying meal. Alternatively, enjoy it as a light and refreshing lunch on its own. It also makes a fantastic and crowd-pleasing dish to bring to potlucks, picnics, and summer gatherings. For an even more festive Mexican-themed feast, pair it with crispy tortilla chips, fresh salsa, and creamy guacamole. The possibilities are endless! You could consider serving this pasta salad alongside other Mexican-inspired dishes like tacos, enchiladas, or quesadillas. The combination of flavors and textures will create a memorable culinary experience for you and your guests.

6. Frequently Asked Questions About This Pasta Salad

Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! To make this Easy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad completely vegan-friendly, simply substitute the mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative such as vegan mayo or a creamy cashew dressing. In addition, ensure that you select a plant-based cheese alternative if you wish to include cheese in the salad. There are many great vegan cheese options available these days that melt and taste similar to traditional dairy cheese.

Can I add more vegetables to this salad?

Yes, definitely! Feel free to get creative and add a variety of diced vegetables to the pasta salad for extra nutrition, flavor, and texture. Some great options include diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange for vibrant color), zucchini, black beans, and even roasted sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness. Just be sure to adjust the dressing accordingly if you add a significant amount of extra vegetables.

How do I adjust the spice level of this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

If you prefer a milder salad with less heat, you can easily reduce or completely omit the chili powder from the dressing. Conversely, if you enjoy a spicier kick, feel free to add diced jalapeños (remove the seeds for less heat), a dash of cayenne pepper, or a few drops of your favorite hot sauce to the dressing.

Is it okay to use frozen corn for this recipe?

Yes! Frozen corn is definitely a convenient and perfectly acceptable option for this recipe, especially when fresh corn is not in season. Just cook the frozen corn kernels according to the package instructions (usually boiling or steaming), then let them cool completely before mixing them into your salad to prevent wilting the other ingredients.

7. Conclusion: Enjoy Your Easy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad!

Your exciting journey to creating the ultimate Easy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is just the beginning. With its refreshing and flavorful ingredients, simple preparation, and versatile serving options, this salad is destined to become a beloved favorite at any gathering, potluck, or barbecue. Enjoy making this delightful dish and sharing it with your cherished friends and family—it’s a surefire way to add some vibrant and delicious excitement to any meal!

Print