Name: Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 8 ounces uncooked fusilli pasta; 4 ears of corn, grilled and kernels cut off (about 2 cups); 3 green onions, sliced thin; 1 jalapeño, seeded and deveined, finely chopped; 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped; 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco; 3 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1 lime, zested and juiced; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

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There’s something about summer that inspires delicious, fresh dishes, and Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is no exception. This vibrant salad combines the classic flavors found in Mexican street corn—known as elote—with the hearty goodness of pasta. It’s perfect for a barbecue, picnic, or even a light dinner at home. The blend of sweet corn, spicy jalapeño, and creamy Greek yogurt dressing captures the essence of warm days and good company. It’s all about bringing people together around the table, enjoying flavors that resonate with the heart and soul of summertime. As we wade into the recipe, let’s get excited about the fun and satisfying experience of preparing this zesty salad, sprinkled with just the right amount of charm and spice.

Why This Recipe Works

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad works perfectly because it highlights rich, robust flavors reminiscent of authentic Mexican street corn. It starts with grilled corn, which offers that smoky char and sweetness, and mixes beautifully with pasta. The creamy dressing provides a delightful balance of heat and freshness, making each bite an experience. Together, these elements create a filling dish that feels hearty yet light enough to enjoy on warm days, making it perfect for gatherings with friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

You’ll love this twist on traditional pasta salads because it intrigues the palate in a new way. The flavors meld together to create a satisfying meal that’s something special. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up, perfectly suited for summer barbecues, potlucks, or simple weeknight dinners when you’re craving something fresh but not overly complicated.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious dish:

8 ounces uncooked fusilli pasta
4 ears of corn, grilled and kernels cut off (about 2 cups)
3 green onions, sliced thin
1 jalapeño, seeded and deveined, finely chopped
1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco
3 tablespoons mayonnaise
1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 lime, zested and juiced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

Cooking the Pasta to Perfection

To start, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fusilli pasta and cook until al dente, which typically takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This helps maintain the perfect texture and keeps the pasta from becoming mushy.

Grilling the Corn for Maximum Flavor

While the pasta cooks, preheat your grill to a medium-high heat. Grill the corn for about 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally until it becomes nicely charred. The grill gives the corn a wonderful flavor that’s essential for this dish. Once done, let it cool for a moment, then cut the kernels off the cob, ready to mingle with the other ingredients.

Preparing the Dressing

In a glass measuring cup or small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lime juice, and lime zest, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, and salt until smooth. This creamy dressing not only coats the pasta nicely but also ties all those incredible flavors together.

Assembling the Pasta Salad

In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked pasta, grilled corn, sliced green onions, jalapeño, chopped cilantro, and crumbled queso fresco. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently until everything is well coated. Make sure every ingredient gets a flavor boost from the dressing; it makes all the difference!

Final Touches

After mixing, take a moment to taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can always add more salt or a little extra lime juice for zing. Just before serving, garnish with a sprinkle of extra cilantro and crumbled queso fresco to enhance the presentation and the flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is best served chilled. It’s an ideal side dish to complement grilled meats or spicy tacos. Consider bringing it along to your next potluck, or enjoy it as a light lunch option. Everyone will be asking for your secret!

Tips for Success

Using fresh corn will give you the best flavor; however, frozen kernels will work in a pinch if you’re pressed for time. Allowing the pasta salad to chill for at least an hour is suggested as it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. It’s definitely worth the wait!

Variations

Feel free to mix things up! You can substitute corn with roasted red peppers for a sweeter taste or add diced avocado for an extra layer of creaminess and healthy fats. These tweaks can make the recipe your own and suit your taste.

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To refresh your pasta salad before serving again, simply add a splash of lime juice; it brings the salad back to life and keeps it flavorful!

Pairing Ideas

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, creating a complete meal. To wash it down, consider serving it with a refreshing drink, like lime-infused sparkling water or a light beer.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any pasta shape will work well; however, fusilli holds the dressing nicely.

2. How can I make this salad spicier?
If you like extra heat, add more jalapeño or include a dash of hot sauce in the dressing.

3. Is there a vegan alternative for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt and mayo with cashew cream or dairy-free yogurt and use plant-based cheese.

4. How long can I store leftovers?
You can enjoy leftovers stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

5. Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! Making it a day in advance enhances the flavor; just add fresh cilantro before serving.

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of summer’s vibrant flavors. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing friends at a gathering, each bite is bound to bring joy. So grab your ingredients, enjoy the process, and share the deliciousness. Your taste buds will thank you!