Street Corn Pasta Salad

Street corn pasta salad is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of roasted corn with tender noodles and fresh herbs, all enveloped in a smoky lime sauce. This easy-to-make pasta salad is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or as a side dish at any meal. Its vibrant flavors and colorful ingredients make it an eye-catching addition to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This street corn pasta salad comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of roasted corn, jalapeños, and spices creates a deliciously unique taste that will impress your guests.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or a side, and feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual lunch or a festive barbecue, this pasta salad fits seamlessly into any menu.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and herbs, this dish is not only tasty but also nutritious.

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Tools and Preparation

To make the street corn pasta salad efficiently, gather all your essential tools beforehand. Having the right tools can enhance your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Large bowl
• Frying pan
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly until al dente.
• Frying pan: Perfect for roasting corn to enhance its flavor before adding it to the salad.
• Knife: Necessary for chopping ingredients like vegetables and herbs accurately.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing and dicing ingredients.

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 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 from sticking.)

Step 3: Prep 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

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

Step 5: Assemble the 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

Serving street corn pasta salad can elevate your meal experience, making it perfect for gatherings or family dinners. This dish is vibrant and full of flavor, making it a hit with both adults and kids alike.

As a Main Dish

• Serve it chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing main course.
• Pair it with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.

At a Potluck

• This salad is great for potlucks; just bring it in a large bowl and let guests serve themselves.
• Add extra lime wedges on the side for those who want a zesty kick.

As a Side Dish

• It complements barbecue dishes beautifully, such as ribs or pulled pork.
• Serve alongside tacos or burritos for a complete Mexican-inspired meal.

For Meal Prep

• Portion into containers for easy lunches throughout the week.
• Drizzle with extra dressing right before eating to keep it fresh.

How to Perfect Street Corn Pasta Salad

To ensure your street corn pasta salad is always delicious, follow these handy tips that will enhance its flavors and texture.

• Use Fresh Corn: Freshly roasted corn gives the best flavor compared to canned or frozen options.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of jalapeno to suit your heat preference; you can even remove the seeds for less spice.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Add More Herbs: Experiment with other herbs like parsley or mint for added freshness and depth of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Street Corn Pasta Salad

Pairing side dishes with street corn pasta salad can create a delightful meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement this flavorful dish.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinate chicken pieces in lime juice and spices, then grill until tender and juicy.
2. Black Bean Tacos: Fill soft tortillas with seasoned black beans, avocado, and salsa for a hearty addition.
3. Chili Lime Roasted Vegetables: Roast seasonal veggies tossed in chili powder and lime zest to echo the flavors of your salad.
4. Avocado Salsa: Combine diced avocado, tomatoes, onion, and cilantro with lime juice for a refreshing dip.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add a delightful contrast to the savory notes of your pasta salad.
6. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Charred corn on the cob slathered in creamy sauce is an excellent pairing that enhances the theme of your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Street Corn Pasta Salad, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the taste and texture of your dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta for too long can make it mushy. Always aim for al dente for the best texture.
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or old herbs and vegetables can dull the flavors. Always opt for fresh ingredients to enhance your salad’s taste.
• Skipping the Roasting Step: Failing to roast the corn can lead to a bland flavor. Roasting adds depth and sweetness, so don’t skip this step!
• Not Tasting the Dressing: Forgetting to sample the dressing before mixing can result in an unbalanced flavor. Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Using Low-Quality Cheese: Substituting cotija cheese with low-quality alternatives can impact creaminess and flavor. Stick with authentic cotija for the best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Not recommended, as freezing may change the texture of pasta and vegetables.
• If necessary, use a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month.

Reheating Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover the salad with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warmed through. Stir between intervals for even heating.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary, stirring frequently until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Street Corn Pasta Salad.

How can I customize my Street Corn Pasta Salad?

You can add diced bell peppers, black beans, or avocado for extra flavor and nutrition.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! Feta or goat cheese are great alternatives if cotija is unavailable.

Is Street Corn Pasta Salad spicy?

The level of heat depends on jalapenos used. For less spice, remove seeds or use mild peppers.

What should I serve with Street Corn Pasta Salad?

It pairs well with grilled meats, tacos, or as a standalone light meal.

How do I store leftover Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.

Final Thoughts

Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of flavors that brings together creamy textures and refreshing ingredients. Perfect for summer gatherings or weekday meals, this recipe allows you to customize it according to your preferences. Try adding your favorite veggies or proteins to make it truly yours!