Street Corn Pasta Salad

Street corn pasta salad combines the vibrant flavors of summer with comforting pasta. This dish features tender noodles, roasted corn, and an assortment of fresh herbs all tossed together in a zesty, smoky lime sauce. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a light weeknight dinner, this salad is sure to impress your family and friends with its bold taste and delightful textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious salad in under 30 minutes.
• Flavorful Profile: The combination of roasted corn, lime, and spices creates a unique flavor that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side or main dish; it’s perfect for any occasion from casual lunches to festive gatherings.
• Fresh Ingredients: Incorporating fresh herbs and veggies makes this pasta salad not only tasty but also nutritious.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients or adjust the spice level to suit your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make street corn pasta salad, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta quickly and efficiently.
• Frying pan: Perfect for roasting corn evenly to bring out its sweetness.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures safe and precise chopping of ingredients.
• Mixing bowl: Helps combine all ingredients easily without making a mess.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Salad

• about 400g of pasta
• 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 of 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 on the cooked pasta and toss it to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Prepare Your Ingredients

Prep your other ingredients by thinly slicing the green onion, finely mincing the shallot, garlic, jalapeno, and cilantro. Crumble or grate the cotija cheese. Zest and juice one lime.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

Combine sour cream, mayo, minced garlic, lime zest and juice, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Stir well until fully combined.

Step 5: Assemble Your Salad

In a large bowl, add your cooked pasta 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. Enjoy!

How to Serve Street Corn Pasta Salad

Street corn pasta salad is a versatile dish that makes for a fantastic meal on its own or as a side. Here are some creative ways to serve it.

As a Main Dish

• This salad can be a fulfilling main course, especially during warm weather. Pair it with grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.

At a Barbecue

• Serve street corn pasta salad alongside your favorite grilled meats. Its smoky flavors complement barbecue dishes perfectly.

For Meal Prep

• Portion the salad into containers for easy lunches throughout the week. It tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a day!

As an Appetizer

• Offer small servings as an appetizer at gatherings. Guests will love the fresh flavors and unique twist on traditional pasta salad.

How to Perfect Street Corn Pasta Salad

To make your street corn pasta salad truly shine, follow these simple tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables enhance the flavor and texture of the salad.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Aim for al dente pasta to ensure it holds up well in the salad.
• Adjust spice levels: Customize the heat by adding more or less jalapeño based on your preference.
• Chill before serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with cheese: Feel free to swap cotija cheese with feta or queso fresco if desired.

Best Side Dishes for Street Corn Pasta Salad

Street corn pasta salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some tasty options to consider.

1. Grilled Vegetables: A vibrant mix of seasonal veggies grilled until tender complements the salad’s flavors.
2. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): The classic dish features sweet corn slathered in creamy sauce, perfect alongside your pasta salad.
3. Black Bean Tacos: These hearty tacos provide a satisfying protein option that complements the fresh flavors of the salad.
4. Avocado Salsa: A zesty avocado salsa adds creaminess and freshness that pairs well with your street corn pasta salad.
5. Chips and Guacamole: Crunchy tortilla chips serve as a fun snack and balance out the meal’s textures.
6. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy skewers add protein and are easy to cook on the grill alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making street corn pasta salad can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the pasta too long, it can become mushy. Always follow the package instructions and aim for al dente.
• Skipping the roasting step: Roasting corn enhances its flavor. Avoid using raw or canned corn; take the time to roast fresh corn for a smoky taste.
• Not balancing flavors: A mixture of sour cream, mayo, and lime juice is key. Don’t skimp on the seasoning; taste as you go to ensure a flavorful dish.
• Ignoring texture: Add-ins like jalapenos and green onions provide crunch. Make sure to chop them well but not too fine to keep some bite.
• Using stale ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices elevate your salad. Always use fresh cilantro and check expiration dates on your spices for optimal taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep in the main compartment of your fridge, not the door, to maintain freshness.

Freezing Street Corn Pasta Salad

• This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen for up to 1 month.
• Use freezer-safe containers and leave a little space at the top for expansion.

Reheating Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm in a pan over low heat while stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Street corn pasta salad combines roasted corn with pasta and fresh herbs in a creamy dressing, inspired by Mexican street corn.

How do I make my Street Corn Pasta Salad spicy?

To add spice, include more jalapenos or even diced serrano peppers. Adjust according to your heat preference!

Can I customize my Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp, or swap cotija cheese for feta.

How long does Street Corn Pasta Salad last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, it lasts about 3 days.

Final Thoughts

Street corn pasta salad is a delightful blend of flavors that can easily adapt to suit your tastes. With options for customization and quick preparation, this dish is perfect for summer gatherings or a comforting weeknight meal. Give it a try and enjoy its vibrant taste!