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Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad: A Flavor-Packed Summer Delight

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delightful fusion of flavors with smoky, creamy undertones, perfect for summer picnics.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 210
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni or penne gluten-free pasta can be used as a substitute
For the Corn
  • 2 cups sweet corn kernels (fresh or frozen) thaw if using frozen
  • 1 medium jalapeño pepper optional for heat
  • 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil for dairy-free option
For the Dressing
  • ½ cup mayonnaise can swap for Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice fresh juice preferred
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder adjust to taste or swap with paprika
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika regular paprika is a fine alternative
  • to taste salt
  • to taste black pepper
For the Additional Goodies
  • ¼ cup chopped cilantro leaves can substitute with parsley
  • ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese feta cheese is a great substitute

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • colander
  • Airtight container

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
  1. Cook the elbow macaroni or penne in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente, 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sweet corn kernels and sauté for 8-10 minutes until golden brown.
  3. Sprinkle chili powder and smoked paprika over the cooled corn, stirring well to coat.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, charred corn, mayonnaise, lime juice, crumbled cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and jalapeño if using. Toss gently to combine.
  5. Adjust seasoning to taste with salt, black pepper, or more lime juice.
  6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 210kcalCarbohydrates: 27gProtein: 6gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 250IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Use fresh lime juice and ingredients for the best flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning before chilling.

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