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Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad: Flavorful Summer Delight

Enjoy a refreshing Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad with vibrant flavors and creamy dressing, perfect for summer gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Base
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni or penne feel free to swap for any small pasta shape
For the Sweet Corn
  • 2 cups sweet corn kernels fresh or frozen preferred
For the Heat
  • 1 whole jalapeño pepper omit for a milder version
For Sautéing
  • 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil for a lighter touch
For Freshness
  • ¼ cup chopped cilantro leaves parsley can be used as an alternative
For Creaminess
  • ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese or feta; omit for dairy-free
For the Dressing
  • ½ cup mayonnaise or vegan mayonnaise for dairy-free
  • 1 whole lime freshly squeezed juice
For Flavor Depth
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder adjust based on spice preference
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika recommended for flavor
  • to taste salt
  • to taste black pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Plastic wrap

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 7–9 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add sweet corn and sauté for 8–10 minutes until well-charred.
  3. Remove skillet from heat, stir in chili powder and smoked paprika, and let cool slightly.
  4. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, charred corn, mayonnaise, lime juice, cotija cheese, cilantro, and jalapeño. Toss to coat.
  5. Season the salad with salt and black pepper to taste and mix well.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to meld flavors.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 8gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, let the salad chill for a few hours or overnight to enhance flavors. Adjust spice levels to personal preference.

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