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Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad: A Smoky Summer Delight

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad delivers smoky, creamy, and tangy flavors, perfect for summer cookouts and gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni or penne use gluten-free pasta for a lighter option
  • 2 cups sweet corn kernels fresh or frozen; canned corn can be used if needed
For the Spice
  • 1 medium jalapeño pepper skip for a milder dish
For Charred Flavor
  • 1 tbsp butter substitute with olive oil for a vegan alternative
For Freshness
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro leaves parsley makes a good substitute
For Creaminess
  • 1 cup crumbled cotija cheese feta cheese can be used as an alternative
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise try Greek yogurt for a healthier twist
For Zest
  • 1 tbsp juice from lime can swap for lemon juice
For Seasoning
  • 1 tsp chili powder paprika can be used for a milder touch
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika regular paprika works in a pinch
  • to taste salt
  • to taste black pepper

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • colander
  • plastic wrap

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Char the corn in a skillet with butter over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes until nicely browned.
  3. Remove corn from heat and stir in chili powder and smoked paprika; let it cool slightly.
  4. Combine cooled pasta, charred corn, mayonnaise, lime juice, cotija, cilantro, and jalapeño in a bowl. Toss gently.
  5. Season with salt and black pepper, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  6. Serve chilled as a refreshing side or alongside grilled meats.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Taste and adjust seasoning after mixing. Fresh herbs are recommended for the best flavor.

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