Description
Bring the vibrant flavors of elote to your table with this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad. This refreshing dish combines al dente rotini pasta with charred corn, creamy dressing, and zesty seasonings, making it a delightful side for any occasion—from summer barbecues to potlucks or simply as a quick lunch. The colorful presentation and bold taste will impress your guests and keep them coming back for more. Whether you’re looking to serve a crowd or just want a delicious meal prep option, this salad is customizable to suit your taste. Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature, and savor the burst of flavors in every bite!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- 1. Cook the pasta: Boil water in a large pot, add rotini pasta, and cook until al dente. Drain and let cool.
- 2. Char the corn: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add corn kernels, and cook for 5-7 minutes until slightly charred. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
- 3. Prepare the dressing: In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- 4. Combine ingredients: Add cooled pasta, charred corn, cotija cheese, red onion, and cilantro into the dressing bowl; toss until evenly coated.
- 5. Serve or chill: Adjust seasoning if needed; serve immediately or refrigerate for later enjoyment.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Use fresh corn during peak season for the best flavor. Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of chili powder used. Chill the salad before serving to enhance flavor melding.