Oh wow, let me tell you about this Mexican street corn pasta salad! It’s like a fiesta in a bowl, bursting with vibrant flavors and that refreshing crunch you crave on a warm day. This salad combines sweet corn with juicy cherry tomatoes, zesty lime, and a creamy dressing that ties it all together beautifully. Seriously, every bite is a delightful mix of textures and tastes that’ll make your taste buds dance! It’s perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy night in. Trust me, once you make this Mexican street corn pasta salad, it’ll become a go-to recipe you’ll want to whip up again and again. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients List
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 8 oz pasta (your favorite shape, like rotini or penne)
- 1 cup corn (fresh off the cob or frozen, just thawed)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced finely
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (for that creamy goodness)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (adds a nice tang)
- 1 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy with the seasoning!)
How to Prepare Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
- First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain it and give it a quick rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- While the pasta is cooking, grab a skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. Add the corn and sauté it for about 5-7 minutes until it starts to get a lovely char. This is where the magic happens, so keep an eye on it!
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed corn, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and chopped cilantro. Give it a good stir to mix everything together.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This creamy dressing is what makes the salad so irresistible!
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently until everything is well coated. Cover the bowl and chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows all those fantastic flavors to meld together!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s chat about the nutritional side of this delicious Mexican street corn pasta salad. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But generally speaking, here’s what you can expect per serving:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fiber: 3g
This salad is satisfying and packs a nice balance of flavors and textures! Perfect for a light meal or a side dish that complements your main course. Enjoy every bite, guilt-free!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Mexican street corn pasta salad comes together in just about 25 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Flavor Explosion: With the sweetness of corn, the tang of lime, and the creaminess of the dressing, every bite is a burst of deliciousness that will have everyone coming back for more!
- Crowd-Pleaser: Trust me, this salad is always a hit at parties, potlucks, and BBQs. It’s colorful, vibrant, and so inviting!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can whip this up a day in advance, letting the flavors meld beautifully in the fridge.
- Versatile: Pair it with grilled meats, enjoy it on its own, or serve it as a side dish—whatever suits your occasion!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your Mexican street corn pasta salad turns out just perfect! First off, don’t skip the step of rinsing your pasta under cold water after cooking; it helps keep the pasta from getting mushy and sticky. Also, if you can, use fresh corn when it’s in season—it brings such an amazing sweetness and crunch to the dish! Don’t be shy with the lime juice; a little extra can brighten up the flavors beautifully. And remember, letting the salad chill for at least 30 minutes is key; it allows those flavors to really mingle and develop. Lastly, if you like a bit of heat, toss in some diced jalapeños for a spicy kick! Enjoy crafting this delightful salad!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up your Mexican street corn pasta salad! For a fresh twist, try adding diced avocado for a creamy texture and rich flavor. You can also mix in other veggies, like bell peppers or zucchini, to amp up the crunch. Want to spice things up? Swap out the chili powder for smoked paprika or even a dash of cayenne for some heat. Fresh herbs like parsley or green onions can also brighten the dish. And if you’re a cheese lover, crumbled feta or cotija cheese makes a fabulous addition! Get creative and make it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your Mexican street corn pasta salad is super simple! Just transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days, so you can enjoy those delicious flavors again! When you’re ready to dig in, there’s no need to reheat this salad; it’s best enjoyed cold. Just give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing and ingredients. If you find the salad has thickened a bit in the fridge, you can add a splash of lime juice or a dollop of sour cream to loosen it up. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve made this vibrant Mexican street corn pasta salad, let’s talk about how to serve it up! This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or shrimp, adding a nice protein boost and complementing those fresh flavors. For a vegetarian option, consider serving it alongside some spicy black bean tacos or grilled veggie skewers. If you’re looking for a refreshing drink, a chilled margarita or a zesty limeade will elevate your meal to a whole new level! It’s also fantastic as a side dish at summer barbecues or picnics. Enjoy the fiesta on your plate!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen corn works perfectly in this Mexican street corn pasta salad. Just make sure to thaw it before sautéing. It’s a great time-saver!
How long can I make this salad in advance?
You can prepare the salad a day in advance, which is actually a great idea! Letting it sit in the fridge allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully. Just give it a good stir before serving.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even black beans can be fantastic additions. Just mix them in right before serving for a heartier dish.
What should I do if my salad seems too dry?
If you find your salad has thickened up in the fridge, simply add a splash of lime juice or a spoonful of sour cream to loosen it up. It’ll bring back that creamy goodness!
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep! Just store it in individual containers, and you’ll have a delicious, ready-to-eat meal throughout the week. Enjoy your flavorful, vibrant meals!
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad: 5 Flavorful Secrets Revealed
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing Mexican street corn pasta salad packed with flavors.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- In a skillet, sauté corn until slightly charred.
- In a large bowl, combine pasta, corn, tomatoes, onion, and cilantro.
- In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
- Chill for 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh corn for best flavor.
- Adjust spice level by adding more or less chili powder.
- This salad can be made a day in advance.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing and Chilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: mexican street corn pasta salad