Street Corn Pasta Salad

Street corn pasta salad is a delightful dish that combines the comforting texture of pasta with the vibrant flavors of roasted corn and fresh herbs. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or even a cozy dinner at home, this salad brings bold tastes to your table. Its unique smoky lime sauce makes it stand out, delivering a refreshing twist that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This street corn pasta salad comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a hassle-free option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of roasted corn, jalapeños, and a zesty lime dressing creates an explosion of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Versatile Dish: Whether you serve it as a side dish or a main course, this salad fits perfectly into any meal plan and can be enjoyed warm or cold.
• Colorful Presentation: The bright colors from the fresh ingredients make this salad visually appealing, adding a pop to your table.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to adjust the spice level or add your favorite veggies to make this pasta salad truly yours.

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Tools and Preparation

To make street corn pasta salad successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Frying pan
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A must-have for boiling pasta efficiently without overcrowding.
• Frying pan: Ideal for roasting corn evenly, enhancing its flavor through caramelization.
• Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for precise chopping and slicing of ingredients like vegetables and herbs.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl helps in combining all ingredients easily without spilling.

Ingredients

Street corn pasta salad features tender noodles, roasted corn, and a bunch of herbs all tossed in a tangy, smoky lime sauce.

For the Pasta

• about 400g of pasta

For the Salad Mix

• 2 roasted corn cobs
• 3 green onions
• 1 shallot
• 2 jalapeno
• 1/2 cup cilantro
• 1 cup cotija cheese

For the Dressing

• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayo
• 3 cloves garlic
• juice and zest of 1 lime
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp salt & pepper

How to Make Street Corn Pasta Salad

Step 1: Roast the Corn

Start by husking your corn and roasting it. I fried mine on a pan with olive oil for about 10-15 minutes, making sure to rotate every couple minutes. Once cooked take a knife or peeler to separate the kernels from the cob.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add in your pasta. Cook until al dente, strain and set aside. (Tip: drizzle some olive oil and toss to prevent pasta sticking.)

Step 3: Prep Your Ingredients

Prep your other ingredients: thinly slice the green onion, finely mince the shallot, garlic, jalapeno, and cilantro, and crumble/grate the cotija cheese. Zest and juice 1 lime.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

Make the dressing by combining sour cream, mayo, minced garlic, lime zest and juice, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt and pepper.

Step 5: Assemble Your Salad

All that’s left to do is assemble. Start by adding your cooked pasta to a large bowl along with the roasted corn, green onions, shallot, jalapeno, cilantro, and cotija cheese. Pour the dressing over top and mix well. Top with more cotija and fresh herbs if desired and enjoy!

How to Serve Street Corn Pasta Salad

Street corn pasta salad is a delightful dish that shines at gatherings and casual dinners alike. Its vibrant flavors make it a perfect side or main dish for any occasion.

As a Main Dish

• This pasta salad can be the star of your meal. It’s hearty enough to serve on its own, providing protein from the cheese and healthy fats from the dressing.

As a Side Dish

• Pair it with grilled meats such as chicken or steak. The smoky and tangy flavors complement barbecued foods wonderfully.

At Picnics or Potlucks

• Street corn pasta salad is easy to transport in a sealed container. It stays fresh and tasty, making it an excellent choice for outdoor events.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with additional cilantro or lime wedges just before serving. This adds a fresh touch that enhances the overall taste of the dish.

How to Perfect Street Corn Pasta Salad

To ensure your street corn pasta salad turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Choose the right pasta: Opt for short pasta shapes like rotini or penne, which hold onto the dressing better than long noodles.

• Roast your corn well: Make sure to get a nice char on the corn for added flavor. This brings out sweetness and smokiness in your salad.

• Don’t skip the lime zest: Adding lime zest boosts the citrus flavor without extra liquid, keeping your salad creamy and delicious.

• Adjust the heat level: If you prefer less spice, remove the seeds from jalapeños before adding them to your salad.

Best Side Dishes for Street Corn Pasta Salad

Street corn pasta salad pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers cooked on the grill add protein and complement the smoky notes of the salad.

2. Black Bean Tacos: Flavorful black bean tacos provide a satisfying vegetarian option that matches well with the tangy pasta salad.

3. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): This classic dish features grilled corn smothered in crema and cheese, echoing flavors found in your salad.

4. Avocado Salad: A light avocado salad with lime dressing offers freshness and creaminess that balances nicely with street corn pasta salad.

5. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa make for an easy appetizer that guests will love alongside your main dish.

6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients, providing a wholesome addition to your meal spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making street corn pasta salad, a few common mistakes can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking your pasta too long can result in a mushy texture. Aim for al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite.
• Skipping Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like cilantro add vibrant flavor. Don’t skip them; they elevate the dish significantly!
• Using Unroasted Corn: Raw corn lacks the smoky flavor that roasted corn brings. Always roast your corn for the best taste.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning can lead to blandness. Be sure to add salt and spices like smoked paprika and chili powder for depth.
• Not Mixing Thoroughly: If you don’t mix well, some bites could be bland or lacking in dressing. Ensure every ingredient is well-coated with the sauce.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover street corn pasta salad in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Freezing is not recommended as it can change the texture of the pasta and fresh ingredients.
• If necessary, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.

Reheating Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a single serving on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making street corn pasta salad.

What is Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Street corn pasta salad combines traditional Mexican street corn flavors with pasta, creating a unique and tasty dish perfect for gatherings.

Can I customize my Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or substitute cheese based on your preference.

How do I make it spicier?

To increase the heat, include more jalapeños or add diced serrano peppers into your salad mix.

How do I store leftovers of Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days to maintain freshness.

Is Street Corn Pasta Salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s great for meal prep! Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.

Final Thoughts

Street corn pasta salad is not only delicious but also versatile! You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or proteins. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just looking for a comforting lunch, this dish will surely please everyone at the table!