Street Corn Pasta Salad

Street corn pasta salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, combining tender noodles with roasted corn and fresh herbs. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or a quick weeknight dinner. Its unique smoky lime sauce elevates the flavors, making it a standout option that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this pasta salad can be made in just 30 minutes.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of roasted corn, fresh herbs, and a zesty lime dressing creates an explosion of taste in every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side at barbecues or enjoy it as a main course. It fits right into any meal setting!
• Colorful Presentation: The vibrant colors from the vegetables and herbs make this pasta salad visually appealing on any table.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make it in advance for lunch or dinner throughout the week; it keeps well in the refrigerator.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Tools and Preparation

To make your street corn pasta salad, having the right tools makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Frying pan
• Serving spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the pasta evenly until al dente.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping veggies and herbs.
• Sharp knife: Aids in precise cutting of ingredients like green onions and jalapenos.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining all ingredients together seamlessly.

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 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, ensuring 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. Add in your pasta and cook until al dente. Strain and set aside. (Tip: Drizzle some olive oil over the pasta 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.
Crumbling or grating the cotija cheese.
Zesting and juicing 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

Mix until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble Your Salad

In a large bowl, add your cooked pasta along with:
Roasted corn
Green onions
Shallot
Jalapeno
Cilantro
Cotija cheese

Pour the dressing over top and mix well. Top with more cotija cheese and fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your delicious street corn pasta salad!

How to Serve Street Corn Pasta Salad

Street corn pasta salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that works well in various settings. Whether it’s a picnic, barbecue, or a cozy dinner at home, this salad shines as a refreshing side or a satisfying main.

As a Main Dish

• This dish can stand alone as a satisfying meal. Serve it chilled for a light lunch or dinner option on hot days.

At Summer Gatherings

• Perfect for potlucks and barbecues, street corn pasta salad adds color and flavor to any spread. Guests will love its unique twist on traditional pasta salads.

Pair with Grilled Meats

• The tangy lime dressing complements grilled chicken, steak, or fish beautifully. Serve alongside your favorite grilled proteins for a complete meal.

As a Picnic Favorite

• Pack this salad in portable containers for an easy picnic dish. It holds up well without wilting, making it ideal for outdoor dining.

How to Perfect Street Corn Pasta Salad

To elevate your street corn pasta salad to the next level, consider these helpful tips. These simple adjustments can enhance the flavor and presentation of your dish.

• Use Fresh Corn: Whenever possible, opt for fresh corn on the cob instead of frozen or canned for maximum sweetness and crunch.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer less heat, seed the jalapenos before adding them. For more spice, consider adding diced serrano peppers.
• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes helps flavors meld together beautifully.
• Add Extra Herbs: Experiment with additional herbs like parsley or mint for an extra layer of freshness.
• Mix in Avocado: For creaminess and added nutrition, fold in diced avocado just before serving.
• Experiment with Cheeses: While cotija is traditional, try using feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Street Corn Pasta Salad

Pairing side dishes with street corn pasta salad can create a full meal experience. Here are some great options that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken breasts marinated in lime juice echo the flavors of the salad.
2. Cornbread: A slice of sweet cornbread adds texture and balances the tangy notes of the pasta salad.
3. Black Bean Tacos: Flavorful black bean tacos provide protein and are an excellent vegetarian option.
4. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): This classic side dish brings similar flavors with its creamy, cheesy coating on grilled corn.
5. Guacamole and Chips: Creamy guacamole served with tortilla chips makes for a delightful appetizer before your main course.
6. Fruit Salsa: A fresh fruit salsa adds sweetness and brightness that complements the smoky flavors of the pasta salad.
7. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with cilantro and lime serves as a great base alongside your pasta dish.
8. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted veggies offers color and nutrition that pairs well with the salad’s richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making street corn pasta salad can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Overcooking the pasta: Pasta should be cooked al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and ruin the texture of the salad.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season each layer can lead to bland flavors. Be sure to taste as you go and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
• Using canned corn: While convenient, fresh roasted corn provides a much better flavor and texture. Always opt for freshly roasted corn for the best results.
• Ignoring ingredient prep: Not preparing ingredients uniformly can affect the overall look and taste. Chop everything evenly for a well-mixed salad.
• Skipping the chilling time: Allowing the salad to chill helps meld the flavors together. Don’t skip this step if you want an amazing taste.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The salad will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to the creamy dressing and texture changes.
• If you must freeze, omit cheese and dressing before freezing.

Reheating Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring between until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm gently on low heat, stirring constantly to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What is Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delicious dish made with roasted corn, pasta, fresh herbs, and a tangy lime dressing. It’s perfect for summer gatherings.

Can I customize my Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Absolutely! You can add proteins like chicken or shrimp or substitute veggies based on your preference.

Is Street Corn Pasta Salad gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta instead of regular pasta.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make Street Corn Pasta Salad vegan, substitute sour cream and mayo with plant-based alternatives and use non-dairy cheese.

Final Thoughts

Street corn pasta salad is a delightful blend of flavors that brings joy to any meal. Its versatility allows you to customize it easily with seasonal ingredients or add protein for extra heartiness. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a refreshing dish perfect for any occasion!