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Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad: A Creamy Summer Delight

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad captures vibrant flavors, perfect for summer gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Elbow Macaroni or Penne Substitution: any short pasta shape
For the Corn
  • 2 cups Sweet Corn Kernels Substitution: fresh, frozen, or canned
For the Heat
  • 1 medium Jalapeño Pepper (optional) Substitution: diced bell pepper
For the Flavor
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Substitution: olive oil
  • 1/4 cup Cilantro Leaves Substitution: parsley for milder taste
  • 1 cup Cotija Cheese Substitution: feta cheese or omit for dairy-free
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Substitution: Greek yogurt or vegan mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons Lime Juice
For the Spices
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Powder No substitution; adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika No substitution; adjust to taste
  • to taste Salt Adjust to taste
  • to taste Black Pepper Adjust to taste

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Char the Corn: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the corn and cook for 8-10 minutes until charred. Season with chili powder and smoked paprika.
  3. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooled pasta, charred corn, mayonnaise, lime juice, cotija cheese, cilantro, and jalapeño.
  4. Season and Chill: Season with salt and pepper. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to meld flavors.
  5. Serve and Refresh: Stir before serving and add more lime juice if desired. Serve chilled.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 7gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Perfect for potlucks, this dish can be made ahead and served chilled for the best flavor. Customize with your favorite toppings.

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