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Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Zesty Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad for Your Next BBQ

This delightful Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad combines vibrant flavors of sweet corn, zesty lime, and fresh ingredients for a perfect summer dish.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Penne or fusilli pasta Choose one for the best texture.
For the Corn
  • 2 cups Frozen corn kernels Thaw and drain thoroughly.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive oil For sautéing the corn.
  • 1 teaspoon Chili powder Adjust for heat preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika Adds subtle smokiness.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
For the Dressing
  • 3/4 cup Mayonnaise Full-fat for best results.
  • 1/2 cup Sour cream Full-fat recommended.
  • 1 juice of Fresh lime About 1 lime.
For the Salad Mix
  • 1 cup Cotija cheese Feta is a good substitute.
  • 1/2 cup Fresh cilantro Optional for a milder flavor.
  • 1 medium Red onion Finely diced.
For Garnish
  • Tajín seasoning Optional sprinkle.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • large skillet
  • Medium bowl
  • Large mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add thawed corn kernels and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until golden and charred. Sprinkle in chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, mixing to coat the corn.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, and lime juice until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, sautéed corn, red onion, and cilantro. Pour dressing over the top and toss gently to coat.
  5. Fold in crumbled cotija cheese carefully for added flavor and texture.
  6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Before serving, toss and sprinkle with Tajín seasoning.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

This salad is ideal for meal prep and can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Avoid freezing to maintain texture.

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