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–+ servings
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Zesty Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Ready in 20 Minutes

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant dish that combines tender pasta with smoky corn and a zesty dressing, perfect for any gathering.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Dressing
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise Substitution: Use Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or Mexican crema Substitution: Use plain yogurt if unavailable.
  • 1 clove garlic Use roasted garlic for a milder taste.
  • 1 whole lime Use lemon juice as an alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder Adjust quantity based on heat preference.
  • 1 pinch ground cayenne pepper (optional) Omit for a milder dish.
Salad
  • 2 cups frozen or fresh corn Canned roasted corn can be used in a pinch (drained).
  • 2 cups cooked small pasta Choose gluten-free pasta if needed.
  • 1/4 cup sliced green onions Red or white onions can be substituted.
  • 1 whole jalapeño Omit for a milder version or use bell pepper for crunch without heat.
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro Omit if not a cilantro fan.
  • 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese Substitution: Use feta cheese or queso fresco if unavailable.
  • 1 cup crispy bacon (optional) Omit for a vegetarian dish.

Equipment

  • Grill
  • Skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • small bowl
  • Spatula

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. If using fresh corn, shuck the kernels and grill them for about 10 minutes over medium-high heat until they are beautifully charred. If using frozen corn, sauté it in a skillet on medium-high for 3-4 minutes until it achieves a golden color. Set aside to cool slightly.
  2. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, lime zest and juice, chili powder, and cayenne pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, add charred corn, cooked small pasta, sliced green onions, diced jalapeño, chopped cilantro, and crumbled cotija cheese. Gently toss to combine.
  4. Pour the creamy dressing over the salad ingredients and toss until fully coated. If adding crispy bacon, fold it in now.
  5. Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for about 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for enhanced flavors. Use fresh ingredients for the best taste.

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