Recipes Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad: A Fiesta in Every Bite

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Mexico with this tantalizing Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad. This delectable dish combines the irresistible flavors of elote, the beloved Mexican street corn, with the comforting familiarity of pasta salad. Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and transport you to the bustling streets of Mexico City.

Ingredients:

For the Pasta:

• 1 pound (450g) elbow macaroni, cooked al dente
• 1 cup (240ml) frozen corn kernels, thawed
• 1 cup (240ml) chopped red bell pepper
• 1 cup (240ml) chopped green bell pepper
• 1 cup (240ml) chopped onion
• 1/2 cup (120ml) chopped cilantro

For the Dressing:

• 1 cup (240ml) mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup (120ml) sour cream
• 1/4 cup (60ml) lime juice
• 1/4 cup (60ml) chopped fresh jalapeño (optional, for heat)
• 1 teaspoon (5g) ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon (5g) chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) salt
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) black pepper

For the Toppings:

• 1/2 cup (120ml) crumbled Cotija cheese
• 1/4 cup (60ml) chopped fresh cilantro
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions:

Prepare the Pasta:

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, corn kernels, bell peppers, onion, and cilantro.

Make the Dressing:

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, jalapeño (if using), cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and stir to combine.

Assemble the Salad:

1. Transfer the pasta salad to a serving bowl or individual bowls.
2. Sprinkle with Cotija cheese and fresh cilantro.
3. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.

Tips:

• For a spicier salad, use more jalapeño or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing.
• If you don’t have Cotija cheese, you can substitute Parmesan or feta cheese.
• For a vegan version, use plant-based mayonnaise and sour cream.
• Add other vegetables to your liking, such as chopped tomatoes, avocado, or black beans.
• Serve the salad with tortilla chips or a side of Mexican rice for a complete meal.

Variations:

• Grilled Corn Pasta Salad: Grill the corn kernels before adding them to the salad for a smoky flavor.
• Creamy Chipotle Pasta Salad: Add a dollop of chipotle cream to the dressing for a rich and smoky kick.
• Black Bean and Corn Pasta Salad: Stir in a can of drained and rinsed black beans for extra protein and texture.
• Avocado and Lime Pasta Salad: Add sliced avocado and extra lime juice to the salad for a refreshing twist.

Health Benefits:

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.

• Corn: A good source of fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins A, C, and B.
• Bell Peppers: Rich in vitamins C, A, and K, as well as antioxidants.
• Onion: Contains anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
• Cilantro: A good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants.
• Cotija Cheese: A good source of calcium and protein.

Conclusion:

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that will become a staple in your summer gatherings. Its combination of sweet corn, tangy dressing, and savory toppings creates an irresistible taste that will leave you craving for more. Whether you serve it as a side dish, a main course, or a party appetizer, this salad is sure to impress your taste buds and transport you to the heart of Mexico. So, gather your ingredients, put on some lively music, and prepare to indulge in a culinary fiesta with every bite of this delectable Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad.