This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad combines the vibrant flavors of traditional Mexican elote with the comforting texture of pasta. Perfect for summer cookouts, potlucks, or family gatherings, this salad is creamy, tangy, and full of fresh ingredients. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a crowd-pleaser that can brighten any table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This pasta salad takes just 30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy days.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of lime juice, cotija cheese, and spices creates a zesty taste that everyone will love.
- Versatile Dish: Pair it with grilled meats or serve it as a standalone vegetarian meal — it fits any occasion!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this salad in advance and store it in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Customizable: Feel free to add other ingredients like bell peppers or avocado to suit your taste.
Tools and Preparation
Before jumping into the recipe, having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Mixing bowls (large and small)
- Whisk
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta and cooking corn efficiently.
- Colander: Helps drain the pasta quickly without losing any pieces.
- Mixing bowls: Provides space for combining ingredients without mess.
Ingredients
This creamy and tangy Mexican street corn pasta salad has all the flavors of Mexican elote but in a quick and easy pasta salad.
For the Pasta
- 16 ounces ditalini pasta (or any shape, like shells, elbow macaroni, or bow-tie)
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
For the Corn Mixture
- 4 medium ears of corn (husked)
- 4 tablespoons lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup Mexican crema (or sour cream)
Spices and Seasonings
- ¾ teaspoon fine salt (plus more to taste)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Fresh Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (plus more for topping)
- ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese (plus more for topping)
For Garnish
- Chile lime seasoning (like Tajiín, for topping)
How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain it using a colander. Immediately toss with olive oil in a large bowl to prevent sticking. Allow it to cool on your counter or in the fridge while you prepare the corn.
Step 2: Prepare the Corn
Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Add the husked corn and cook for about 5 minutes or until tender and bright yellow. Transfer the corn to a plate and let it cool until manageable.
Step 3: Cut Corn Kernels
Once cooled, carefully cut the kernels off each cob into a medium bowl. Make sure to get as much corn as possible!
Step 4: Mix Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, mayonnaise, Mexican crema, garlic powder, salt, and cayenne pepper until smooth.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Add the mayonnaise sauce along with cooked corn, chopped cilantro, and cotija cheese into your bowl of cooled pasta. Toss everything together gently until well combined.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Top your dish with extra cilantro and cotija cheese if desired. You can also sprinkle some chile lime seasoning on top for an added kick. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
This Mexican street corn pasta salad is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether for a casual gathering, a picnic, or as a side for a family dinner, the options are plenty.
As a Standalone Dish
- This pasta salad makes for a refreshing standalone meal, great for warm weather. Simply serve it cold straight from the refrigerator.
In Lettuce Wraps
- For a low-carb option, serve the salad in large lettuce leaves. This adds crunch and freshness to each bite.
Topped with Protein
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp on top of the pasta salad to transform it into a heartier main dish. The flavors of the protein complement the existing ingredients beautifully.
Paired with Grilled Foods
- Serve alongside grilled meats like steak or chicken. The smoky flavors will balance well with the creamy pasta salad.
At Potlucks and Gatherings
- This dish is perfect for potlucks due to its crowd-pleasing flavor and easy preparation. Just bring a large bowl and let everyone dig in!
How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
To ensure your Mexican street corn pasta salad reaches its full potential, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Corn: Fresh corn enhances the sweetness and texture of this dish. If fresh corn isn’t available, frozen corn can be used as an alternative.
- Adjust the Creaminess: Modify the amount of mayonnaise and crema based on your taste preference. You can add more for creaminess or reduce it for a lighter salad.
- Add Extra Spice: If you love heat, increase the cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños for an extra kick. This will elevate the flavor profile significantly.
- Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving helps meld the flavors together, making each bite more delicious.
- Garnish Right Before Serving: To keep toppings like cilantro and cotija cheese fresh, add them just before serving. This will enhance both appearance and taste.
Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Complement your Mexican street corn pasta salad with these delicious side dishes that pair perfectly together.
- Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers filled with seasonal vegetables bring additional flavor and nutrition to your meal.
- Black Bean Tacos: These hearty tacos are simple to prepare and provide a satisfying contrast to the creamy pasta salad.
- Avocado Salsa: A fresh avocado salsa adds brightness and creaminess, making it an excellent pairing with your pasta salad.
- Chips and Guacamole: The crunch of tortilla chips combined with smooth guacamole offers a fun texture contrast.
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with lime and cilantro complements the flavors of the pasta salad nicely.
- Cilantro Lime Quinoa: This light quinoa dish enhances the overall meal’s freshness while adding another layer of flavor.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse your palate between bites of rich pasta salad.
- Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice or beans add color and nutrition while providing another tasty option on your table.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Mexican street corn pasta salad can be simple, but small mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta beyond al dente can result in a mushy texture. Always follow package instructions and check for doneness a minute or two early.
- Skipping the cooling step: If you don’t cool the pasta before mixing, the salad can become warm and soggy. Toss it with olive oil and let it cool completely.
- Using fresh corn improperly: Not cooking the corn long enough may leave it tough. Boil it until tender and bright yellow for the best flavor and texture.
- Not seasoning adequately: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can lead to a bland salad. Incorporate salt gradually, tasting as you go, to achieve the desired flavor.
- Neglecting toppings: Skipping cilantro or cotija cheese can lessen the dish’s authenticity. Top with these ingredients right before serving for added flavor and presentation.
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Preparation: Ensure the salad is cooled completely before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezing Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
- Duration: This salad is not recommended for freezing as it may change texture upon thawing.
- Alternatives: Consider making a smaller batch if you’re unsure about leftovers.
Reheating Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), spread on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, stirring gently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mexican street corn pasta salad?
Mexican street corn pasta salad combines traditional flavors of elote with pasta, creating a creamy, tangy dish perfect for gatherings.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! Substitute mayonnaise and crema with vegan alternatives to create a delicious vegan version of Mexican street corn pasta salad.
How can I customize my Mexican street corn pasta salad?
You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or jalapeños for extra crunch and spice. Adjust toppings based on your preference as well!
What should I serve with Mexican street corn pasta salad?
This dish pairs well with grilled meats, tacos, or as part of a potluck spread. It’s versatile enough to complement many meals!
How do I make this recipe ahead of time?
Prepare everything except the dressing and toppings in advance. Combine them just before serving for optimal freshness.
Final Thoughts
This Mexican street corn pasta salad is both creamy and refreshing, making it an ideal side dish for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner, this recipe will surely impress your guests!
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delightful fusion of vibrant flavors from traditional Mexican elote and the comforting texture of pasta. This creamy, tangy salad is perfect for summer cookouts, potlucks, or family gatherings, making it a crowd-pleaser that adds a festive touch to any meal. With fresh ingredients like sweet corn, zesty lime, and crumbled cotija cheese, each bite bursts with flavor. Quick and easy to prepare in just 30 minutes, this dish is not only versatile—pairing well with grilled meats or enjoyed as a standalone vegetarian meal—but also make-ahead friendly. Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Ingredients
- 16 ounces ditalini pasta
- 4 medium ears of corn
- 4 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup Mexican crema
- ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese
- Fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Cook the ditalini pasta until al dente, drain with a colander, and toss with olive oil.
- Boil husked corn for about 5 minutes until tender; cool and cut off kernels.
- In a bowl, mix lime juice, mayonnaise, Mexican crema, garlic powder, salt, and cayenne pepper until smooth.
- Combine the corn kernels with cooked pasta, cilantro, cotija cheese, and dressing; mix gently.
- Garnish with additional cilantro and cotija before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: For added creaminess, adjust the amount of mayo or crema to your liking. Consider using fresh corn for the best sweetness; frozen can be used as an alternative. Chill before serving to enhance flavors.
