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Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad : A Flavor Dish!

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If you love Mexican street corn (elotes) and pasta, then this Elote Pasta Salad is a must-try!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pasta Salad:

  • 12 ounces pasta (rotini, penne, or shells)

  • 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)

  • ½ cup red bell pepper, diced

  • ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped

  • ¼ cup cilantro, chopped

  • ½ cup cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta cheese)

For the Dressing:

  • ½ cup mayonnaise

  • ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

  • 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)

  • 1 teaspoon lime zest

  • ½ teaspoon chili powder

  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

  • Salt & black pepper to taste

Optional Additions:

  • 1 cup grilled chicken or shrimp (for added protein)

  • 1 cup black beans (for a fiber boost)

  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (for extra heat)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

  • Fresh Corn: Grill or roast the corn on an open flame until slightly charred, then cut off the kernels.

  • Canned Corn: Drain and rinse well.

  • Frozen Corn: Thaw and pat dry before using.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, lime zest, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

Step 4: Assemble the Pasta Salad

In a large bowl, combine the pasta, corn, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, and cotija cheese. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.

Step 5: Chill & Serve

Let the pasta salad chill in the fridge for 15-30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with extra cotija cheese, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime before serving.

Notes

✔️ Use Fresh Lime Juice – It enhances the bright, tangy flavor.
✔️ Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Al dente pasta holds up better in the dressing.
✔️ Let It Chill Before Serving – This allows the flavors to blend beautifully.

Nutrition

Keywords: Pasta Street Corn Salad

Find it online: https://lyndyskitchen.com/mexican-street-corn-pasta-salad-a-flavor-dish/