Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the smoky, tangy elements of traditional Mexican street corn with the heartiness of pasta. This salad features charred corn, creamy avocado, crisp bacon, and a zesty dressing that ties everything together. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or as a refreshing side dish, this salad is sure to be a hit with everyone. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a delightful treat that can be enjoyed any time of the year.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 2 cups (6 ounces) radiatori noodles: The unique shape of radiatori noodles helps capture the dressing and ingredients, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Prevents the pasta from sticking and adds a light flavor.
- 1 can (15 ounces) corn kernels, drained: Provides the sweet, smoky taste of street corn.
- 1 large avocado, diced: Adds a creamy texture and rich flavor.
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced: Adds a mild onion flavor without overpowering the dish.
- ½ bunch cilantro, finely chopped: Freshens up the salad with its bright, herbaceous notes.
- 1 medium jalapeno pepper, seeded and diced: Adds a subtle heat to the salad.
- 6 strips thick-cut bacon, cooked and roughly chopped: Provides a savory, crispy element.
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled: Adds a tangy and creamy component.
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds protein and a hearty texture.
For the Dressing:
- ½ cup full-fat mayonnaise: Creates a creamy base for the dressing.
- 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice (approximately 2-3 limes): Adds tanginess and freshness.
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon paprika: Contributes a mild smokiness.
- ½ teaspoon chili powder: Adds a bit of spice and depth.
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce: Provides heat and enhances the overall flavor.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing the flavors.
Instructions
- Pasta Preparation:
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and toss with 2 tablespoons of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside to cool.
- Corn Roasting:
- Heat a large cast-iron skillet over high heat. Add the drained corn kernels in a single layer. Allow the corn to char for 2-3 minutes without stirring, then flip to char the other side. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Salad Assembly:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, charred corn, diced avocado, thinly sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, diced jalapeno, chopped bacon, crumbled feta cheese, and drained black beans. Toss gently to mix.
- Dressing Preparation:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, freshly squeezed lime juice, ground cumin, paprika, chili powder, and hot sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Serve:
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Transfer the salad to a serving dish. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serving
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is best served chilled or at room temperature. This versatile dish makes a great side for grilled meats, tacos, or as part of a potluck spread. Garnish with additional cilantro or a sprinkle of chili powder for an extra pop of color and flavor. This salad is perfect for summer gatherings, family dinners, or as a refreshing lunch option.
Notes
- Corn: If fresh corn is available, you can use it instead of canned corn for a sweeter, fresher flavor. Simply grill or roast the corn on the cob and cut the kernels off.
- Cheese Alternatives: While feta cheese adds a tangy contrast, you can substitute it with cotija cheese or queso fresco for a more authentic Mexican flavor.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeno and hot sauce to suit your preferred spice level. For a milder version, omit the jalapeno seeds or use a milder pepper.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may thicken slightly as it sits, so add a splash of lime juice or olive oil to refresh it before serving.
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the components of the salad (pasta, corn, bacon, and dressing) a day ahead and assemble just before serving to save time.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can use other pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or farfalle. The key is to use a pasta that can hold onto the dressing and mix well with the other ingredients.
What if I don’t have a cast-iron skillet? You can use any heavy-bottomed skillet or even a grill pan to char the corn. The goal is to achieve a smoky, slightly burnt flavor.
Can I make this salad vegan? Yes, to make this salad vegan, use vegan mayonnaise, omit the bacon or use a plant-based alternative, and substitute the feta cheese with a vegan cheese option.
Is there a substitute for mayonnaise? You can use Greek yogurt or sour cream as a lighter alternative to mayonnaise. Adjust the lime juice to taste if using these substitutes.
Can I add more vegetables to this salad? Absolutely! This salad is versatile and can accommodate additional vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or red onions for extra flavor and color.
How can I make the salad spicier? To increase the spice level, add more jalapeno, use a hotter chili powder, or include a pinch of cayenne pepper in the dressing.
Can I use frozen corn instead of canned corn? Yes, you can use frozen corn. Thaw and drain it before charring in the skillet as directed.
What other proteins can I add to this salad? Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even steak can be added to make this salad a complete meal. Ensure the protein is cooked and seasoned well before mixing it into the salad.
How long can this salad sit out at room temperature? For safety reasons, it’s best to keep the salad refrigerated until ready to serve. If serving outdoors, try to keep it out for no longer than 2 hours to prevent spoilage.
Can I use pre-cooked bacon bits? Yes, you can use pre-cooked bacon bits to save time. Just ensure they are crispy and flavorful.
In conclusion, Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delightful and refreshing dish that brings together the flavors of Mexican street corn and pasta. With its combination of smoky charred corn, creamy avocado, savory bacon, and a tangy, spicy dressing, this salad is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Easy to make and full of vibrant flavors, it’s perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or potlucks. Enjoy this versatile and tasty salad that’s as satisfying as it is delicious!