Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This quick and easy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that combines the vibrant flavors of Mexico with the comfort of pasta. Loaded with savory charred corn, salty cotija cheese, and a tangy chipotle lime dressing, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch or served as a side dish at your next taco night, this salad is sure to impress with its bold flavors and refreshing ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking time, you can whip up this salad in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of charred corn, creamy cotija cheese, and zesty dressing makes every bite unforgettable.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course for lunch, or pair it with your favorite Mexican dishes for dinner.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This salad is a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for potlucks, barbecues, or any festive occasion.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Featuring fresh vegetables and wholesome ingredients, this dish is both tasty and healthy.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Essential for charring the corn to enhance its flavor.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Necessary to cook the ditalini pasta perfectly al dente.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining all the ingredients thoroughly.
• Knife: Useful for chopping vegetables and herbs efficiently.

Ingredients

This quick and easy Mexican street corn pasta salad is loaded with savory charred corn, salty cotija cheese, and a tangy chipotle lime dressing. Enjoy on its own as an easy lunch or serve as a side dish for your next taco night.

Pasta

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

Vegetables

• Diamond Crystal kosher salt
• 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)

Cheese & Dressings

• 1/4 cup cotija cheese (crumbled, reserve some for garnish)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayo
• 2 whole chipotle peppers (packed in adobo)
• 1/3 cup fresh lime juice (plus the zest of 1 of the limes)

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil water in a large pot. Add Diamond Crystal kosher salt. Cook the ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Char the Corn

In a skillet over medium-high heat, add 2-3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Once hot, add the fresh corn kernels. Cook until they are nicely charred, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with charred corn. Add minced garlic, jalapeño, chopped cilantro, sliced scallions, cotija cheese, sour cream, mayo, chipotle peppers, lime juice and zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine & Serve

Gently toss all ingredients together until well mixed. Garnish with reserved cilantro, scallions, and cotija cheese before serving. Enjoy your delicious Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This vibrant Mexican street corn pasta salad is versatile and perfect for various occasions. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or a side, there are numerous ways to serve it.

As a Standalone Lunch

• Enjoy this salad chilled for a refreshing lunch option. It’s satisfying and packed with flavors that will keep you energized throughout the day.

Paired with Grilled Meats

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or steak for a delicious meal. The smoky flavors complement each other wonderfully, making it a great addition to your barbecue spread.

Taco Night Staple

• This salad is an excellent side for taco night. Its creamy texture and zesty dressing balance the spices of your favorite tacos.

Potluck Favorite

• Bring this dish to your next potluck or gathering. It’s easy to transport and always garners compliments from friends and family.

Picnic Perfect

• Pack it in your picnic basket for a delightful outdoor meal. Its robust flavors hold up well, making it ideal for enjoying in the sun.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

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

• Use fresh corn: Fresh corn kernels add sweetness and crunch. If fresh corn isn’t available, frozen can work as a substitute.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta holds up better in salads and prevents mushiness. Follow package instructions carefully.
• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to modify the amount of jalapeño based on your heat preference. A milder version can be achieved by omitting seeds.
• Chill before serving: Allow the salad to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This enhances the flavor profile significantly.
• Garnish generously: Adding extra cotija cheese, cilantro, and scallions on top adds visual appeal and extra flavor.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding avocado slices or diced tomatoes for added freshness and color.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Pairing your Mexican street corn pasta salad with complementary side dishes elevates any meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Shrimp Tacos – Lightly seasoned shrimp served in warm tortillas make a flavorful match.
2. Black Bean Salsa – A refreshing salsa loaded with beans, tomatoes, onions, and lime juice brightens up your plate.
3. Avocado Salad – Creamy avocado mixed with lime juice provides a rich contrast to the pasta salad’s zestiness.
4. Mexican Rice – Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices rounds out the meal beautifully.
5. Queso Dip – A warm cheese dip served with tortilla chips is always a crowd-pleaser at gatherings.
6. Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned seasonal vegetables provide a healthy side that pairs well with this hearty salad.
7. Chips and Guacamole – The classic combination adds crunch and creaminess that everyone loves.
8. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins bring an additional layer of flavor that complements the salad nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Make sure to avoid these common mistakes while preparing your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad.

• Using overcooked pasta: Overcooked pasta can ruin the texture of your salad. Cook the ditalini pasta until al dente for the best bite.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season properly can lead to a bland dish. Make sure to taste and adjust salt and pepper throughout the cooking process.
• Skipping fresh ingredients: Using canned corn instead of fresh can impact flavor significantly. Fresh corn adds sweetness and crunch that is essential in this recipe.
• Not letting it chill: Serving the salad immediately after mixing can lead to a less flavorful dish. Allow it to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
• Ignoring the dressing balance: Too much sour cream or mayo can overpower the flavors. Use a balance of both for a creamy yet tangy dressing.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure it cools completely before sealing.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh; freezing may alter texture.
• If you must freeze, use a freezer-safe container.
• Consume within 1 month for optimal taste.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm covered with foil for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl covered loosely for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad.

Can I use frozen corn for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Yes, you can use frozen corn, but fresh corn provides better flavor and texture. Thaw it before using.

How spicy is this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

The spice level depends on the amount of jalapeño used. Adjust it according to your preference by adding more or less.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! Making it a day ahead allows flavors to meld beautifully. Just give it a good stir before serving.

What can I substitute for cotija cheese?

Feta cheese is a great alternative if you can’t find cotija. It offers a similar salty flavor.

Is this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta shapes available at most grocery stores.

Final Thoughts

The Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is not just delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various toppings like avocado or black beans, making it perfect for any occasion. Try this refreshing salad at your next gathering!