This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or as a side dish at any barbecue. With its combination of roasted corn, creamy cheeses, and a zesty dressing, this salad stands out as a crowd-pleaser. The refreshing ingredients make it suitable for various occasions, ensuring that it will be a hit no matter where you serve it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The mix of roasted corn, Cotija cheese, and jalapeños creates an irresistible taste experience.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 23 minutes, it’s perfect for those last-minute meal needs.
• Versatile Dish: Ideal as a side or main dish, this salad complements many meals.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Serves 10 people easily, making it great for parties and potlucks.
• Easy to Customize: Adjust the heat level with more or fewer jalapeños according to your preference.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather the essential tools needed to prepare your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Necessary for boiling pasta quickly and evenly.
• Colander: Helps drain the pasta effectively without losing any pieces.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Perfect for achieving a smooth dressing consistency.

Ingredients

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is loaded with roasted corn, Cotija and cheddar, creamy dressing and jalapeños for a kick of heat.

For the Pasta Salad

• 1 pound trotolle pasta
• 6 ears roasted corn
• 1/2 cup red onion (diced)
• 1/2 cup jalapeño pepper (diced)
• 3/4 cup finely shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 3/4 cup finely shredded Cotija cheese (divided)

For the Dressing

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 lime (juiced)
• 1-2 teaspoons Tajín

For Garnish

• Freshly snipped cilantro
• Additional Tajín

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How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Boil the trotolle pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted water. Drain and rinse with cold water. Place the cooled, drained pasta in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

Cut the corn off each cob using a sharp knife. Add the freshly cut corn to the mixing bowl with the pasta.

Step 3: Add Vegetables & Cheese

Incorporate the diced red onion and jalapeño pepper into the bowl. Next, add in 1/2 cup of both shredded cheddar cheese and Cotija cheese.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and Tajín. Start with 1 teaspoon of Tajín and adjust to taste. Pour this creamy dressing over your salad ingredients in the mixing bowl and mix well to ensure everything is coated evenly.

Step 5: Garnish & Chill

Top your salad with the remaining cheeses along with extra Tajín and freshly snipped cilantro. Cover it up and chill until ready to serve.

Enjoy this vibrant Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad at your next gathering!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Serving Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad can elevate your meal, making it both appealing and delicious. Here are some creative ways to present this delightful dish.

As a Standalone Dish

• This pasta salad is hearty enough to be served alone, making it perfect for lunch or dinner.

At Summer Picnics

• Bring this salad to summer gatherings. It complements grilled meats and fresh vegetables beautifully.

Paired with Grilled Protein

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or shrimp. The flavors of the salad enhance the smoky taste of any grilled dish.

As a Side for BBQs

• Perfect for BBQs, this pasta salad adds a refreshing touch to your plate while balancing out rich flavors from barbecued meats.

In Individual Cups

• For a fun twist at parties, serve in small cups. This makes it easy for guests to grab and enjoy without fuss.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

To make sure your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad turns out fantastic every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and quality cheeses will enhance the flavor of your salad significantly.
• Adjust the Heat: Modify the amount of jalapeño according to your heat preference. You can also add more Tajín for an extra kick.
• Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to chill in the fridge for at least an hour. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.
• Mix Gently: When combining ingredients, mix gently to avoid breaking the pasta or cheese. You want a nice presentation.
• Add Lime Just Before Serving: If you plan on storing leftovers, hold off on adding lime juice until serving time to keep it fresh.
• Garnish Smartly: Top with extra cilantro and cheese just before serving for a vibrant look and added flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This pasta salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes, enhancing your meal’s overall experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers seasoned with spices complement the creamy pasta salad perfectly.
2. Black Bean Tacos: Vegetarian tacos filled with black beans provide a hearty option that matches well with the flavors of the salad.
3. Corn on the Cob: Simple grilled corn on the cob can echo the corn used in the pasta salad while adding a fun element.
4. Avocado Salsa: A fresh avocado salsa adds creaminess and balances out any spiciness from the jalapeños in the salad.
5. Watermelon Feta Salad: This refreshing salad contrasts nicely, providing sweetness that enhances your meal’s overall appeal.
6. Roasted Veggie Platter: A colorful platter of roasted seasonal vegetables adds nutrition while visually complementing your spread.
7. Chips and Guacamole: Crunchy tortilla chips paired with creamy guacamole create a satisfying snack option alongside your pasta salad.
8. Caprese Skewers: These skewers offer a fresh twist with mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil that go well together with pasta salads.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, avoid these common pitfalls for the best results.

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions and taste test a minute before the recommended time.
• Skipping the rinse: Failing to rinse the pasta after cooking can result in clumping. Rinse with cold water to stop cooking and cool it down.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Tajín adds flavor, but not everyone likes it spicy. Start with less and add more gradually to suit your taste.
• Using stale ingredients: Freshness matters! Ensure your corn, cheeses, and herbs are fresh for maximum flavor.
• Neglecting to chill: Serving immediately may not allow flavors to meld. Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes for a tastier dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The salad will last up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Keep it chilled until serving.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to the mayonnaise and dairy ingredients.
• If needed, store without dressing; consume within 2 months after freezing.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warm, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad tastes even better when made a day in advance. Just be sure to store it properly in the fridge.

What can I substitute for Cotija cheese in this recipe?

If you can’t find Cotija cheese, feta or queso fresco are great substitutes that will still provide a similar texture and flavor.

How do I make this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad spicier?

For extra heat, increase the amount of jalapeño or add diced serrano peppers. You could also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and can be enjoyed over several days as a side dish or light lunch.

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is not only flavorful but also versatile. With its creamy dressing and vibrant ingredients, it’s an ideal dish for summer picnics or potlucks. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite veggies or proteins. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!