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Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

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If youā€™ve ever had the pleasure of enjoying Mexican street corn, also known as elote, you know the experience is one to remember. The smoky charred corn, slathered with creamy mayo, tangy lime, and a hit of chili powder, brings a mouthwatering mix of textures and flavors. Now, imagine taking those same flavors and transforming them into a vibrant, crowd-pleasing pasta salad. Thatā€™s exactly what this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad deliversā€”bold, zesty, and utterly satisfying.

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Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

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Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is the ultimate way to enjoy a fusion of flavors! šŸŒ½šŸ With charred corn, creamy dressing, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese, this salad brings a delightful balance of savory, tangy, and smoky goodness. šŸŒ¶ļøāœØ Perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or a simple family meal, itā€™s a fun twist on traditional pasta salad that will have everyone coming back for seconds! šŸ˜

#StreetCornMagic šŸŒ½ #PastaSaladLove šŸ #BBQReady šŸ– #MexicanFlavors šŸ‡²šŸ‡½ #CreamyDelight šŸ§€ #TangyAndSavory šŸ’„ #FlavorFusion šŸ’« #SummerSalads šŸ„— #PerfectForParties šŸŽ‰ #VibrantAndTasty šŸŒ±

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 2 cups radiatori noodles (or your preferred type): Radiatori noodles are perfect for this salad because their ridges hold onto the dressing, giving each bite a burst of flavor. However, feel free to use any short pasta shape you have on hand, such as rotini, penne, or fusilli. The key is to use pasta that can hold up to the hearty ingredients and dressing.

Salad Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 ounces) corn kernels, drained: Corn is the star of this salad, giving it that signature elote flavor. You can use canned corn for convenience, but if you have fresh corn on the cob, feel free to grill or roast it and cut off the kernels for an even smokier taste.
  • 1 large avocado, diced: The avocado adds a creamy richness to the salad that balances the tangy and spicy flavors. It also gives the dish a lovely texture contrast against the crisp corn and bacon.
  • 3 green onions, thinly sliced: Green onions bring a mild, slightly sweet onion flavor to the dish, along with a pop of color. Their freshness complements the richness of the other ingredients.
  • Ā½ bunch cilantro, finely chopped: Fresh cilantro is essential for bringing brightness to the salad. Its citrusy flavor pairs wonderfully with the lime dressing and complements the smoky corn.
  • 1 medium jalapeno pepper, seeded and diced: For those who enjoy a little heat, jalapenos are a must. The spiciness of the pepper adds a lively kick to the salad, which is balanced by the cooling avocado and creamy dressing.
  • 6 strips thick-cut bacon, cooked and roughly chopped: Bacon adds a savory, crispy element that works beautifully with the other ingredients. Its smokiness enhances the overall flavor, creating a satisfying contrast to the creamy and tangy elements in the dish.
  • Ā½ cup feta cheese, crumbled: Feta cheese adds a salty, tangy bite that enhances the saladā€™s flavor profile. If you prefer a more authentic Mexican flavor, you can substitute feta with cotija cheese, a crumbly Mexican cheese thatā€™s perfect for this type of dish.
  • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed: Black beans contribute a hearty, earthy flavor to the salad. They also add protein and fiber, making this salad a more filling option for a main dish or side.

Dressing Ingredients

  • Ā½ cup full-fat mayonnaise: Mayonnaise forms the base of the dressing, giving it a creamy texture that coats the pasta and vegetables. Itā€™s the perfect binder for all the ingredients.
  • 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice (about 2ā€“3 limes): Lime juice adds a refreshing tang that cuts through the richness of the mayo and bacon. Its bright flavor is key to balancing the heaviness of the other ingredients and creating a lively taste.
  • ā…› teaspoon ground cumin: Cumin gives the dressing a warm, earthy flavor thatā€™s essential for this Mexican-inspired pasta salad. It adds depth and richness to the overall flavor.
  • Ā¼ teaspoon paprika: Paprika adds a subtle smoky note to the dressing. You can also experiment with smoked paprika if you want to amplify the smoky flavor even more.
  • Ā½ teaspoon chili powder: Chili powder brings the necessary heat and complexity to the dressing, giving it a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the charred corn and crispy bacon.
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce: A little bit of hot sauce elevates the spiciness and tang of the dressing. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your personal spice preference.
  • Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings like salt and pepper are crucial to bringing all the flavors together. Donā€™t be afraid to taste and adjust as you go to ensure the dressing is perfectly balanced.

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the pasta and cook until al denteā€”firm to the bite but not overly soft. Once done, drain the pasta and toss it with two tablespoons of olive oil to prevent it from sticking. Set the pasta aside to cool slightly while you prepare the other ingredients.

2. Char the Corn

Next, itā€™s time to give the corn that signature smoky flavor. Heat a large cast-iron skillet over high heat and add the drained corn kernels in a single layer. Let them cook without stirring for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to char and develop a golden-brown color. After a few minutes, flip the kernels to char the other side. Once the corn is nicely browned, remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool.

3. Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lime juice, cumin, paprika, chili powder, and hot sauce. Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste. The dressing should have a balanced, creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor that will tie the entire salad together.

4. Assemble the Salad

In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked pasta, charred corn, diced avocado, green onions, chopped cilantro, diced jalapeno, crispy bacon, crumbled feta cheese, and rinsed black beans. Toss everything together gently to distribute the ingredients evenly throughout the bowl.

5. Combine with Dressing

Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated. Make sure the dressing gets into all the nooks and crannies of the pasta and other ingredients, creating a creamy, flavorful coating.

6. Chill and Serve

For the best flavor, cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes. This allows the ingredients to meld together, enhancing the flavor of the dish. You can serve the salad chilled or at room temperatureā€”either way, itā€™s sure to be a hit!

Notes

1. Grilling the Corn

While you can easily use canned corn for this recipe, grilling or roasting fresh corn on the cob will add an extra layer of smoky flavor that takes the salad to the next level. Simply grill the corn on medium-high heat for about 10 minutes, rotating it every few minutes until itā€™s nicely charred. Once itā€™s cool enough to handle, cut the kernels off the cob and proceed with the recipe.

2. Cheese Variations

If you prefer a more authentic flavor, swap out the feta cheese for cotija cheese, a crumbly Mexican cheese thatā€™s perfect for this dish. Cotija adds a salty, tangy bite that complements the other ingredients beautifully. Alternatively, you can try using queso fresco, another mild Mexican cheese, if you want something lighter.

3. Add Extra Veggies

For more color and texture, feel free to add other vegetables to the salad. Diced red bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even some finely chopped red onion can bring extra flavor and visual appeal to the dish. You can also add a handful of chopped fresh parsley or swap out the cilantro if youā€™re not a fan of its flavor.

4. Make It Vegetarian

If youā€™d like to make this pasta salad vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and add some extra black beans or roasted chickpeas for protein. The rest of the ingredients will still shine and create a satisfying, hearty salad.

5. Spice Adjustments

The amount of heat in this salad can be easily adjusted to your taste. If you prefer a milder version, use only a small amount of jalapeno or leave it out entirely. On the other hand, if you love spice, feel free to add more hot sauce or use a spicier pepper like serrano in place of the jalapeno.

  • Author: Paula Susan
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes

Whether youā€™re preparing for a summer barbecue, a picnic in the park, or a festive family gathering, this pasta salad is sure to become a staple at your next event. With a base of tender pasta, smoky charred corn, creamy avocado, crispy bacon, black beans, and tangy feta cheese, itā€™s a flavor-packed dish that will keep everyone coming back for more. The homemade dressing ties everything together with a rich, spicy, and tangy finish that brings all the ingredients to life.

In this article, weā€™ll dive deep into how to make this delicious Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, providing you with step-by-step instructions, ingredient tips, and ideas for making the dish your own. Whether youā€™re an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward, fun to make, and will impress even the most discerning food lovers. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to bring a taste of Mexico to your table!

Ingredients Breakdown

Before diving into the recipe, letā€™s take a closer look at each of the ingredients youā€™ll need to create this unforgettable pasta salad.

Pasta

  • 2 cups radiatori noodles (or your preferred type): Radiatori noodles are perfect for this salad because their ridges hold onto the dressing, giving each bite a burst of flavor. However, feel free to use any short pasta shape you have on hand, such as rotini, penne, or fusilli. The key is to use pasta that can hold up to the hearty ingredients and dressing.

Salad Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 ounces) corn kernels, drained: Corn is the star of this salad, giving it that signature elote flavor. You can use canned corn for convenience, but if you have fresh corn on the cob, feel free to grill or roast it and cut off the kernels for an even smokier taste.
  • 1 large avocado, diced: The avocado adds a creamy richness to the salad that balances the tangy and spicy flavors. It also gives the dish a lovely texture contrast against the crisp corn and bacon.
  • 3 green onions, thinly sliced: Green onions bring a mild, slightly sweet onion flavor to the dish, along with a pop of color. Their freshness complements the richness of the other ingredients.
  • Ā½ bunch cilantro, finely chopped: Fresh cilantro is essential for bringing brightness to the salad. Its citrusy flavor pairs wonderfully with the lime dressing and complements the smoky corn.
  • 1 medium jalapeno pepper, seeded and diced: For those who enjoy a little heat, jalapenos are a must. The spiciness of the pepper adds a lively kick to the salad, which is balanced by the cooling avocado and creamy dressing.
  • 6 strips thick-cut bacon, cooked and roughly chopped: Bacon adds a savory, crispy element that works beautifully with the other ingredients. Its smokiness enhances the overall flavor, creating a satisfying contrast to the creamy and tangy elements in the dish.
  • Ā½ cup feta cheese, crumbled: Feta cheese adds a salty, tangy bite that enhances the saladā€™s flavor profile. If you prefer a more authentic Mexican flavor, you can substitute feta with cotija cheese, a crumbly Mexican cheese thatā€™s perfect for this type of dish.
  • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed: Black beans contribute a hearty, earthy flavor to the salad. They also add protein and fiber, making this salad a more filling option for a main dish or side.

Dressing Ingredients

  • Ā½ cup full-fat mayonnaise: Mayonnaise forms the base of the dressing, giving it a creamy texture that coats the pasta and vegetables. Itā€™s the perfect binder for all the ingredients.
  • 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice (about 2-3 limes): Lime juice adds a refreshing tang that cuts through the richness of the mayo and bacon. Its bright flavor is key to balancing the heaviness of the other ingredients and creating a lively taste.
  • ā…› teaspoon ground cumin: Cumin gives the dressing a warm, earthy flavor thatā€™s essential for this Mexican-inspired pasta salad. It adds depth and richness to the overall flavor.
  • Ā¼ teaspoon paprika: Paprika adds a subtle smoky note to the dressing. You can also experiment with smoked paprika if you want to amplify the smoky flavor even more.
  • Ā½ teaspoon chili powder: Chili powder brings the necessary heat and complexity to the dressing, giving it a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the charred corn and crispy bacon.
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce: A little bit of hot sauce elevates the spiciness and tang of the dressing. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your personal spice preference.
  • Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings like salt and pepper are crucial to bringing all the flavors together. Donā€™t be afraid to taste and adjust as you go to ensure the dressing is perfectly balanced.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that weā€™ve broken down the ingredients, letā€™s walk through the steps to make this mouthwatering Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad. Follow these instructions carefully, and youā€™ll have a dish thatā€™s bursting with flavor and perfect for your next gathering.

1. Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the pasta and cook until al denteā€”firm to the bite but not overly soft. Once done, drain the pasta and toss it with two tablespoons of olive oil to prevent it from sticking. Set the pasta aside to cool slightly while you prepare the other ingredients.

2. Char the Corn

Next, itā€™s time to give the corn that signature smoky flavor. Heat a large cast-iron skillet over high heat and add the drained corn kernels in a single layer. Let them cook without stirring for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to char and develop a golden-brown color. After a few minutes, flip the kernels to char the other side. Once the corn is nicely browned, remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool.

3. Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lime juice, cumin, paprika, chili powder, and hot sauce. Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste. The dressing should have a balanced, creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor that will tie the entire salad together.

4. Assemble the Salad

In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked pasta, charred corn, diced avocado, green onions, chopped cilantro, diced jalapeno, crispy bacon, crumbled feta cheese, and rinsed black beans. Toss everything together gently to distribute the ingredients evenly throughout the bowl.

5. Combine with Dressing

Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated. Make sure the dressing gets into all the nooks and crannies of the pasta and other ingredients, creating a creamy, flavorful coating.

6. Chill and Serve

For the best flavor, cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes. This allows the ingredients to meld together, enhancing the flavor of the dish. You can serve the salad chilled or at room temperatureā€”either way, itā€™s sure to be a hit!

Tips and Variations

Now that you know how to make this delicious Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, here are a few tips and variations to make the recipe even more flexible and customizable:

1. Grilling the Corn

While you can easily use canned corn for this recipe, grilling or roasting fresh corn on the cob will add an extra layer of smoky flavor that takes the salad to the next level. Simply grill the corn on medium-high heat for about 10 minutes, rotating it every few minutes until itā€™s nicely charred. Once itā€™s cool enough to handle, cut the kernels off the cob and proceed with the recipe.

2. Cheese Variations

If you prefer a more authentic flavor, swap out the feta cheese for cotija cheese, a crumbly Mexican cheese thatā€™s perfect for this dish. Cotija adds a salty, tangy bite that complements the other ingredients beautifully. Alternatively, you can try using queso fresco, another mild Mexican cheese, if you want something lighter.

3. Add Extra Veggies

For more color and texture, feel free to add other vegetables to the salad. Diced red bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even some finely chopped red onion can bring extra flavor and visual appeal to the dish. You can also add a handful of chopped fresh parsley or swap out the cilantro if youā€™re not a fan of its flavor.

4. Make It Vegetarian

If youā€™d like to make this pasta salad vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and add some extra black beans or roasted chickpeas for protein. The rest of the ingredients will still shine and create a satisfying, hearty salad.

5. Spice Adjustments

The amount of heat in this salad can be easily adjusted to your taste. If you prefer a milder version, use only a small amount of jalapeno or leave it out entirely. On the other hand, if you love spice, feel free to add more hot sauce or use a spicier pepper like serrano in place of the jalapeno.

Conclusion

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a true crowd-pleaser, offering a perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and creamy flavors. With its blend of hearty ingredients like bacon, black beans, and avocado, itā€™s a satisfying dish that works as a side or a main course. The combination of charred corn, fresh herbs, and zesty dressing creates a flavor explosion that everyone will love.

Whether youā€™re hosting a backyard barbecue, bringing a dish to a potluck, or just looking for something vibrant and delicious to share with your family, this pasta salad will not disappoint. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy this Mexican-inspired dish thatā€™s bursting with flavor in every bite. Happy cooking!

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