Introduction
Welcome to a delightful burst of flavors with this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad! This vibrant dish combines the heartiness of penne pasta with the sweet crunch of corn, juicy cherry tomatoes, and the tangy notes of lime. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients that’s perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or a family dinner. The creamy dressing ties everything together, resulting in a refreshing and satisfying salad that everyone will rave about!
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the corn, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped cilantro. This colorful medley is not only beautiful but bursting with fresh flavors!
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. This creamy dressing is the secret to tying all the ingredients together.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss everything until all the ingredients are well-coated in that luscious dressing.
- For the best flavor, chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that’s even more delicious!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize this salad by adding in other fresh ingredients like diced bell peppers, avocado, or even black beans for an extra dose of protein. If you’re looking for a spicy kick, you can sprinkle in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing. This pasta salad is incredibly versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste!
Cooking Techniques
The key technique in this recipe is to ensure your pasta is perfectly cooked. Follow the package instructions carefully and don’t underestimate the importance of rinsing the pasta under cold water. This step is crucial as it prevents the pasta from becoming mushy and helps you achieve the perfect texture. Additionally, letting the salad chill in the refrigerator allows the flavors to develop and intensify, making each bite an explosion of taste!
FAQ
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This pasta salad is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to serve.
What can I serve with this pasta salad?
This delightful salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, tacos, or even as a light standalone lunch. It’s perfect for potlucks or backyard barbecues!
Conclusion
This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is not only easy to make but also a symphony of textures and flavors that will keep everyone coming back for seconds. With its creamy dressing and vibrant ingredients, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. So gather your loved ones and enjoy the delightful taste of summer with every shared bite!