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Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
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Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant and creamy pasta salad that perfectly blends smoky roasted corn, tangy lime, creamy mayonnaise and sour cream, fresh herbs, and a subtle spicy kick. This refreshing yet hearty dish is ideal for picnics, potlucks, or casual dinners, combining the beloved flavors of Mexican street corn with pasta for a colorful and flavorful experience.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni or rotini pasta

Corn

  • 2 cups fresh corn kernels (roasted or grilled)

Creamy Dressing

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Fresh Herbs & Vegetables

  • 1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 3 green onions, chopped

Cheese

  • 1/2 cup crumbly Cotija cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pasta: Cook the pasta of your choice according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta for the salad.
  2. Roast or grill the corn: Remove fresh corn kernels from the cob and roast in a hot skillet or grill until they develop a slight char and smoky aroma, enhancing the signature street corn flavor.
  3. Make the creamy dressing: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, fresh lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
  4. Combine ingredients: Toss the cooked pasta, roasted corn, chopped cilantro, green onions, and dressing until everything is evenly coated and deliciously integrated.
  5. Add cheese and chill: Fold in the crumbly Cotija cheese, then refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld and the dish chill before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh corn for the best flavor and texture; avoid canned or frozen when possible.
  • Chill the salad well to allow flavors to meld and dressing to soak into the pasta and corn.
  • Adjust lime juice to balance acidity without overpowering the creaminess.
  • Don’t skip cilantro, as its fresh citrusy notes are key to authentic flavor.
  • Serve the salad cold or at room temperature, perfect for outdoor gatherings.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, Elote Pasta Salad, Creamy Corn Pasta Salad, Mexican Pasta Salad, Summer Pasta Salad

Find it online: https://mydishez.com/mexican-street-corn-pasta-salad/