Street Corn Pasta Salad

Street corn pasta salad is a vibrant dish that combines the sweetness of roasted corn with tender pasta and fresh herbs, all enveloped in a tangy lime dressing. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or a delicious side dish at your next cookout, this salad stands out with its smoky flavors and bright colors. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue or enjoying it as a light lunch, this street corn pasta salad will impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of roasted corn, cotija cheese, and lime creates an irresistible taste experience.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a side dish for grilled meats or as a main course for a light lunch.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and herbs, this pasta salad is both tasty and nutritious.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more jalapeños or swapping out ingredients to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make street corn pasta salad, having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta quickly and efficiently.
• Colander: Helps to strain the cooked pasta without losing any noodles.
• Frying pan: Ideal for roasting corn evenly for that perfect charred flavor.

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 Roasted Corn

• 2 roasted corn cobs

For Freshness

• 3 green onions
• 1 shallot
• 2 jalapenos
• 1/2 cup cilantro

For Creaminess

• 1 cup cotija cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayo

For the Dressing

• 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; then strain and set aside. (Tip: Drizzle some olive oil and toss to prevent sticking.)

Step 3: Prepare Other 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 1 lime.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayo, minced garlic, lime zest and juice, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.

Step 5: Assemble Your Salad

All that’s left to do is assemble! Start by adding your cooked pasta to a large bowl alongside 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—then enjoy!

How to Serve Street Corn Pasta Salad

Street corn pasta salad is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re having a picnic, a barbecue, or just a casual dinner at home, this salad can complement any occasion beautifully.

As a Main Dish

• Serve it cold for a refreshing lunch option.
• Pair with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.

As a Side Dish

• Offer it alongside tacos or burritos to enhance your Mexican meal theme.
• It makes an excellent accompaniment to barbecued meats during summer cookouts.

For Potlucks and Gatherings

• Present it in a large bowl for friends and family to help themselves.
• Garnish with extra cilantro and cotija cheese for an appealing look.

With Tortilla Chips

• Serve as a dip with crispy tortilla chips for a fun twist.
• This combination adds crunch that pairs well with the creamy texture of the salad.

How to Perfect Street Corn Pasta Salad

To create the best street corn pasta salad, follow these simple tips that will elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and herbs bring out the best flavors in your salad.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify jalapeño quantity according to your heat preference.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for 30 minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try feta or goat cheese if cotija isn’t available; both offer unique tastes.
• Add More Vegetables: Consider adding diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
• Make Ahead: Prepare it a day in advance; this enhances the flavors even more!

Best Side Dishes for Street Corn Pasta Salad

Pairing side dishes with street corn pasta salad can create a balanced and flavorful meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Chicken Tacos: Juicy chicken wrapped in soft tortillas adds protein and complements the salad’s flavors.
2. Black Bean Soup: A hearty soup that brings additional fiber and nutrients while enhancing the Mexican theme.
3. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Roasted corn on the cob topped with lime, cheese, and spices mirrors the flavors found in the salad.
4. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip provides richness and pairs perfectly with tortilla chips or fresh veggies.
5. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice tossed with lime juice and cilantro is a light side that matches well with bold flavors.
6. Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomato salsa adds brightness and freshness, making it an excellent topping or side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta too long can lead to a mushy texture. Aim for al dente for the best results.
• Not Roasting the Corn Properly: Roasting enhances flavor. Ensure your corn is well-charred and tender by turning it frequently while cooking.
• Skipping Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs add brightness. Don’t skip cilantro or green onions, as they elevate the entire dish.
• Using Low-Quality Cheese: Cotija cheese is key for authentic flavor. Choose high-quality cheese for the best taste experience.
• Ignoring Lime Zest: Lime zest adds a fragrant punch. Use it along with lime juice for maximum flavor in your dressing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in pasta and vegetables.
• If you must freeze, use a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month.

Reheating Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Sauté on medium heat with a splash of olive oil until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about street corn pasta salad that might help you make the perfect dish.

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen corn. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding to your salad.

How can I customize my Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Feel free to add proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp, or swap ingredients like using feta instead of cotija cheese.

What types of pasta work best?

Short pastas such as rotini or penne work great, but feel free to experiment with your favorites!

How spicy is this dish?

The dish has a mild spice level from jalapenos. You can adjust the spice by adding more or using milder peppers if desired.

Final Thoughts

Street corn pasta salad combines vibrant flavors and textures into an appealing dish perfect for summer gatherings or quick lunches. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on personal preference or seasonal produce. Don’t hesitate to try this delightful recipe!