If you love the flavors of Mexican street corn, then you’re in for a treat! This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad combines the creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors of elote (Mexican street corn) with the hearty texture of pasta, making it the perfect dish for potlucks, BBQs, or any family gathering. It’s simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
The Allure of Mexican Street Corn
Mexican street corn, known as elote, is a popular snack in Mexico that is typically grilled and slathered with a creamy mixture of mayonnaise, sour cream, lime, and cotija cheese, then dusted with chili powder and cilantro. This dish takes those iconic flavors and combines them with pasta for a unique and satisfying salad.
Ingredients with Quantities
Before diving into the step-by-step preparation, let’s break down the ingredients needed for this delicious dish. The ingredient list is simple, but each one adds to the unique flavor profile.
- 12 oz pasta (rotini or elbow): The pasta provides a hearty base for the salad. You can use any type of short pasta, but rotini or elbow work best as they hold the dressing well.
- 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained: Sweet corn is at the heart of this dish, adding bursts of sweetness to contrast the tangy dressing.
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced: Red onions bring a mild sweetness and a bit of crunch to the salad.
- 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped: Cilantro adds a fresh, herbal note that balances the richness of the other ingredients.
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled: Cotija cheese has a salty, slightly tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the corn and the tang of the dressing.
- 1/4 cup sour cream: Sour cream brings creaminess and tang to the dressing.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Mayonnaise adds richness and helps bind all the ingredients together.
- 1 lime, juiced: Lime juice adds brightness and acidity, enhancing the overall flavor of the salad.
- 1 tsp chili powder: Chili powder gives a mild heat and a smoky flavor reminiscent of grilled street corn.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring out all the flavors in the salad.
Directions and Preparation Method
Now that we have our ingredients lined up, let’s dive into the step-by-step preparation of this flavorful pasta salad.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add your pasta. Cook until al dente, which usually takes about 8–10 minutes depending on the type of pasta you’re using. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until smooth and creamy. This dressing is the backbone of the dish, giving the salad its creamy texture and tangy, spicy flavor.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
To the bowl with the dressing, add the cooked and cooled pasta, drained corn, diced red onion, chopped cilantro, and crumbled cotija cheese. Stir everything together until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing. The creamy dressing clings to the pasta, and the combination of textures—from the creamy cheese to the crunchy corn and onions—makes each bite exciting.
Step 4: Chill the Salad
Transfer the pasta salad to the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial because it allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste. The salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a day, making it a great option for meal prepping or preparing for gatherings.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
After chilling, give the salad a quick stir to redistribute the dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, then serve cold. This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad pairs perfectly with grilled meats, tacos, or can be enjoyed on its own as a light lunch. The combination of creamy, tangy, and spicy flavors is sure to impress anyone who tries it.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh corn instead of canned?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh corn if it’s in season! Simply grill or roast the corn on the cob, then cut the kernels off and use them in place of the canned corn. Grilled corn will add an extra layer of smoky flavor to the salad.
2. What if I can’t find cotija cheese?
If you can’t find cotija cheese, you can substitute it with feta cheese or Parmesan. Both have a similar crumbly texture and salty flavor that works well in this salad.
3. How can I make this salad spicier?
To kick up the heat, you can add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing. You can also increase the amount of chili powder or use a spicier chili powder blend.
4. Is this salad gluten-free?
The salad can easily be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
5. Can I make this salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, you’ll need to make a few substitutions. Replace the sour cream and mayonnaise with vegan alternatives, and use a vegan cheese in place of the cotija. The rest of the ingredients are plant-based.
6. How long does this salad last in the fridge?
This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the dressing may thicken over time, so you may want to stir in a little extra lime juice or water before serving.
7. Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! You can customize this salad by adding other veggies like bell peppers, avocado, or cherry tomatoes. Roasted or grilled vegetables would also add a delicious charred flavor.
8. What should I serve with Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?
This salad pairs well with grilled meats like chicken, steak, or shrimp. It’s also a great side for tacos, quesadillas, or any Mexican-inspired dish. For a lighter option, you can serve it with a simple green salad or some fresh fruit.
Conclusion
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that takes the traditional elote and transforms it into a hearty, satisfying pasta dish. The creamy dressing, tangy lime juice, smoky chili powder, and sweet corn create a balanced flavor that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, attending a potluck, or simply looking for a new and exciting pasta salad recipe, this dish is the perfect choice.