There’s something about summer that just calls for fresh, vibrant flavors! One of my absolute favorite dishes to whip up during the sunny months is **Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad**. I can’t help but reminisce about those warm evenings when I’d gather with friends, our laughter filling the air as we enjoyed this delightful dish. The combination of sweet corn, creamy dressing, fresh veggies, and a hint of spice really takes me back to street food stalls in Mexico. Each bite is a celebration of flavors that reminds me of fiesta vibes!
Today, I’m super excited to share this recipe with you! It’s quick to prepare, and you can easily throw it together for a picnic or a barbecue. With a refreshing taste that perfectly balances creaminess and spice, this pasta salad is sure to be a hit!
What’s in Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?
Pasta: You’ll need about 8 ounces of your favorite pasta, whether it’s penne, rotini, or even farfalle. I usually opt for whole wheat or gluten-free varieties to keep things interesting and healthier.
Corn: Sweet, golden corn is the star of the show! If you’ve got fresh corn on the cob, grill it for that signature char. If you’re short on time (or it’s off-season), canned corn works just fine—just make sure to drain and rinse it well!
Red Onion: Chopped for a little crunch and a lot of flavor! I’ve been known to soak it in cold water for a few minutes to mellow out the sharp taste.
Bell Peppers: Any color will do—red, yellow, or green! They add a lovely crunch and sweetness to the salad. I personally adore using a mix!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is a must for that zesty kick. If you’re not a fan, feel free to swap it out for parsley.
Cotija Cheese: This crumbly, salty cheese brings the dish together. If you can’t find Cotija, feta makes a good substitute too!
Mayonnaise: This is the base of our creamy dressing. I like to use a good quality mayonnaise for the best flavor.
Lime Juice: A splash of lime juice adds brightness! Fresh lime is always best, but bottled will do in a pinch.
Chili Powder: This ingredient adds warmth and a bit of a kick! You can adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
Salt and Pepper: Just a pinch to tie everything together!
Is Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Good for You?
Absolutely! This salad is a great balance of flavors and nutrients.
Pasta: It provides energy thanks to the carbs and if you choose whole wheat, you’re also getting some added fiber.
Corn: A source of vitamins and minerals, corn is high in fiber and comes with a side of antioxidants.
Bell Peppers: These colorful veggies are packed with vitamins A and C, plus they can help support your immune system.
Cilantro: Not only does it add amazing flavor, but it also has some purported health benefits, including acting as an antioxidant.
Everything in moderation, of course! Just be mindful of the mayonnaise and cheese, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake.
Ingredients List
– 8 ounces pasta (your choice)
– 1 cup corn (fresh or canned)
– 1/2 cup red onion, chopped
– 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
– 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
– 1/2 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– Juice of 1 lime
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
*Serves 4 to 6.*
How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?
1. **Cook the Pasta:** Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to package instructions. Once done, drain it and let it cool completely.
2. **Prepare the Corn:** If using fresh corn, throw those cobs on the grill for a few minutes until they get nice char marks and are cooked through. If you’re using canned corn, simply drain and rinse it.
3. **Mix Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, corn, chopped red onion, bell peppers, and cilantro.
4. **Make the Dressing:** In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your taste—feel free to add more lime or chili powder if you’re feeling adventurous!
5. **Combine:** Drizzle the dressing over the pasta mixture and stir it all together, ensuring everything is well coated.
6. **Add Cheese:** Gently fold in the crumbled Cotija cheese.
7. **Chill:** Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together.
Tips for the Ultimate Salad Experience!
– **Let it Chill:** Seriously, don’t skip on chilling this salad! It tastes even better as it sits and the flavors develop.
– **Add Protein:** Want to make it a meal? Toss in some grilled chicken or black beans for added protein!
– **Customize It:** Feel free to add in other veggies you love, like diced tomatoes, zucchini, or even jalapeños if you like it spicy!
– **Make It Ahead:** This salad keeps well—perfect for meal prep or potlucks. It’s often better the next day!
I can’t wait for you to try this fun and delicious Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad! It’s so refreshing and colorful, making every gathering feel a little more festive. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll be craving it all summer long! Let me know how yours turns out, and if you put your own twist on it, I’d love to hear about that too! Enjoy!
