Street Corn Pasta Salad

Street corn pasta salad is a delightful dish that combines the flavors of roasted corn and fresh herbs with tender pasta, all enveloped in a zesty lime sauce. This vibrant salad is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or even as a quick weeknight dinner. Its unique blend of textures and tastes makes it a standout side or main course that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dish in just 30 minutes.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of roasted corn, cilantro, and lime creates a refreshing taste that brightens any meal.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side at barbecues, or enjoy it as a satisfying main dish for lunch or dinner.
• Healthier Option: Packed with fresh ingredients like vegetables and herbs, this salad offers great nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its smoky and tangy notes, this street corn pasta salad is sure to impress family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

To make your street corn pasta salad efficiently, gather the necessary tools before you start cooking. Having everything ready will streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Frying pan
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta perfectly without overcrowding.
• Frying pan: Ideal for roasting corn evenly, enhancing its flavor.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows for thorough mixing of all ingredients.

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

• about 400g of pasta

For the Corn Salad

• 2 roasted corn cobs
• 3 green onions
• 1 shallot
• 2 jalapeno
• 1/2 cup cilantro
• 1 cup cotija cheese

For the Dressing

• 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: Prepare the Ingredients

Prep your other ingredients: thinly slice the green onion, finely mince the shallot, garlic, jalapeno, and cilantro, and crumble/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.

Step 5: Assemble the 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 served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick lunch, this salad is sure to impress.

As a Main Dish

• Pair with grilled chicken for protein and flavor.
• Serve alongside shrimp tacos for a delightful seafood complement.

As a Side Dish

• Enjoy it with burgers for a fresh twist on classic cookout fare.
• It goes well with grilled vegetables, enhancing your meal’s color and flavor.

In Individual Portions

• Present in mason jars for a fun picnic option.
• Serve in small bowls as appetizers at gatherings.

How to Perfect Street Corn Pasta Salad

To create the perfect street corn pasta salad, follow these helpful tips. They will enhance the flavors and textures of your dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh corn and herbs will elevate the flavor significantly.
• Customize spice levels: Adjust jalapeno quantity based on your heat preference.
• Chill before serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Experiment with cheeses: Try feta or Parmesan for different taste profiles.
• Add more veggies: Bell peppers or cherry tomatoes can add extra crunch and color.

Best Side Dishes for Street Corn Pasta Salad

Pairing side dishes with street corn pasta salad can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Grilled Steak Tacos: Juicy beef tacos complement the salad’s flavors perfectly.
2. Black Bean Salsa: This refreshing salsa adds protein and pairs well with the creamy pasta salad.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their sweetness balances the tangy notes of the salad.
4. Mexican Street Corn: Keep the theme consistent by serving this classic dish alongside your pasta salad.
5. Avocado Toast: A light option that brings creaminess and healthy fats to your meal.
6. Chips and Guacamole: A crowd-pleaser that adds crunch and richness to your dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To create the best street corn pasta salad, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can ruin the dish.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta too long can make it mushy. Always follow package instructions for al dente textures.
• Using Raw Corn: Fresh corn needs to be roasted for optimal flavor. Skipping this step will lead to a bland salad.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Failing to season properly can make your salad taste flat. Make sure to use salt and spices in the dressing.
• Not Chilling Before Serving: Serving immediately can result in a warm salad. Chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes for better flavor integration.
• Skipping Fresh Herbs: Leaving out herbs like cilantro diminishes freshness. Always include them for a vibrant taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep away from strong-smelling foods to avoid flavor transfer.

Freezing Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before consuming.

Reheating Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring between, until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to street corn pasta salad.

What is Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Street corn pasta salad is a refreshing dish made with pasta, roasted corn, fresh herbs, and a creamy lime dressing.

Can I customize my Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or substitute different cheeses according to your preference.

How can I make it spicier?

To increase heat, add more jalapenos or include spicy seasonings like cayenne pepper in the dressing.

Is Street Corn Pasta Salad good for meal prep?

Yes! This salad is perfect for meal prep as it holds up well in the fridge and flavors deepen over time.

Final Thoughts

Street corn pasta salad is not only delicious but also highly customizable. Whether you’re looking for a side dish or a light meal, this recipe fits perfectly into any occasion. Feel free to add your favorite ingredients or adjust spices according to your taste!