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Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Creamy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad for Summer Fun

A delightful twist on traditional pasta salad, the Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is creamy, tangy, and perfect for summer gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Elbow Macaroni or Penne Gluten-free pasta can be used for a gluten-free version.
For the Corn
  • 2 cups Sweet Corn Kernels Fresh corn is best, but frozen or canned is an alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Use olive oil for a dairy-free alternative.
For the Heat
  • 1 medium Jalapeño Pepper Optional; substitute with bell pepper for milder flavor.
For Freshness
  • 1/4 cup Cilantro Leaves Omit if cilantro is not preferred.
For Creaminess
  • 1/2 cup Cotija Cheese Use nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Vegan mayo can be used.
  • 1 tablespoon Lime Juice Adjust to taste.
For Extra Flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • to taste Salt Taste before serving.
  • to taste Black Pepper Taste before serving.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • Plastic wrap

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Char the Corn: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add sweet corn and cook until golden and slightly charred, about 8-10 minutes. Let cool.
  3. Season the Corn: Stir in chili powder and smoked paprika, coating the corn evenly. Set aside to cool.
  4. Mix the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, charred corn, mayonnaise, and lime juice. Add cotija cheese, cilantro, and jalapeño. Toss gently to combine.
  5. Season and Chill: Season with salt and black pepper. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to meld the flavors.
  6. Serve: Stir the salad and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled, garnished with extra cotija and cilantro.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Chilling the salad allows flavors to meld together beautifully. Consider adding diced avocado or crispy bacon for extra flavor.

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