Street Corn Pasta Salad

Street corn pasta salad is a vibrant dish perfect for summer gatherings, barbecues, or a quick weeknight meal. This delightful salad combines tender pasta with the sweet crunch of roasted corn and fresh herbs, all coated in a zesty lime dressing. Its unique flavors and textures make it a standout option that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This street corn pasta salad can be made in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of roasted corn, fresh herbs, and the tangy lime sauce delivers an explosion of taste in every bite.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with grilled meats, serve it at potlucks, or enjoy it as a refreshing main dish on its own.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with veggies and wholesome ingredients, this salad is not only delicious but also nutritious.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients or adjust the spice level to suit your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make street corn pasta salad, you’ll need some essential tools to help you prepare this delightful dish efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Stirring spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Necessary for boiling the pasta until it’s perfectly al dente.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining all the ingredients and ensuring the dressing coats everything evenly.
• Knife: Essential for chopping vegetables and cutting kernels off the corn cobs.
• Stirring spoon: Helps to mix the pasta salad thoroughly without damaging the noodles.

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 Base

• about 400g of pasta
• 2 roasted corn cobs
• 3 green onions
• 1 shallot
• 2 jalapeno
• 1/2 cup cilantro

For the Dressing

• 1 cup cotija cheese
• 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 sticking.)

Step 3: Prep Your Ingredients

Prep your other ingredients by thinly slicing the green onion, finely mincing the shallot, garlic, jalapeno, and cilantro. Also crumble or grate the cotija cheese. Zest and juice 1 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 mixing bowl.

Step 5: Assemble Your 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

Street corn pasta salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick lunch, this salad fits the bill perfectly.

As a Main Dish

• Pair it with grilled chicken or shrimp for a hearty meal. The flavors of the smoky lime sauce complement the proteins beautifully.

As a Side Dish

• Serve it alongside tacos or burritos to add a refreshing twist. The tangy dressing balances well with spicy Mexican dishes.

At Potlucks

• Bring it to potlucks and gatherings. Its vibrant colors and delicious flavors will impress your friends and family, making it a hit at any event.

For Meal Prep

• Prepare it in advance for easy lunches throughout the week. Store in airtight containers, and enjoy it cold for a quick, satisfying meal.

How to Perfect Street Corn Pasta Salad

Perfecting street corn pasta salad is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh produce enhances the flavor of your salad, so choose ripe tomatoes and crisp herbs.
• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer less heat, reduce the jalapeno or omit the chili powder.
• Experiment with cheeses: Try different cheeses like feta or Monterey Jack for varied taste profiles.
• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to chill enhances its flavors as they meld together beautifully.
• Add crunch: Consider adding toasted nuts or seeds for an extra layer of texture.

Best Side Dishes for Street Corn Pasta Salad

Pairing side dishes with street corn pasta salad can make your meal more complete and enjoyable. Here are some excellent options.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Lightly charred zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add a smoky flavor.
2. Mexican Street Tacos: Soft tortillas filled with your favorite protein bring complementary flavors.
3. Black Bean Salsa: A refreshing salsa made with black beans adds protein and pairs well with the pasta salad.
4. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on crusty bread makes a delightful contrast to the pasta’s texture.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a lovely balance of sweetness alongside savory dishes.
6. Guacamole: Rich guacamole serves as a creamy dip that enhances the overall experience of your meal.
7. Cilantro Lime Rice: This zesty rice dish complements the flavors of street corn pasta salad perfectly.
8. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips with fresh salsa offer an easy snack that everyone loves.

Enjoy crafting your meals around this delightful street corn pasta salad!

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. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Ensure you cook the pasta just until al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and ruin the salad’s texture.
• Using Cold Corn: Make sure your corn is roasted and at room temperature before mixing it into the salad. Cold corn can dull the flavors of your dish.
• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh herbs and vegetables. Dried or wilted ingredients can lead to a less vibrant flavor.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Taste your dressing before adding it to the salad. Adjust salt and spices as needed for a balanced flavor.
• Not Mixing Well: When combining all ingredients, make sure everything is thoroughly mixed. This ensures every bite is full of flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep it in the fridge to maintain freshness.

Freezing Street Corn Pasta Salad

• It’s best not to freeze this dish as the texture may change after thawing.
• If necessary, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 15 minutes, covered with foil.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: In a pan over low heat, stir gently until heated without losing moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delicious blend of pasta, roasted corn, fresh herbs, and a tangy lime sauce that captures the essence of street corn.

How do I make Street Corn Pasta Salad spicier?

Add extra jalapeños or sprinkle some cayenne pepper into your dressing for an added kick.

Can I customize my Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, black beans, or even chicken for extra protein and flavor.

What dishes pair well with Street Corn Pasta Salad?

This pasta salad makes a great side for grilled meats or tacos, enhancing any summer meal.

Final Thoughts

Street Corn Pasta Salad is not only tasty but also versatile, perfect for summer gatherings or as a satisfying lunch. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients. Try it today and enjoy its delightful flavors!