Introduction
Welcome to a burst of summer flavors with this delightful Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad! Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or a light dinner, this salad combines the vibrant tastes of fresh corn, creamy avocado, and tangy feta, all tossed together with your favorite pasta. The light and zesty dressing brings everything together in a way that’s sure to please your taste buds. Let’s dive into this deliciously refreshing dish!
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (elbow or rotini)
- 2 cups corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 avocado (diced)
- 1/4 cup red onion (finely chopped)
- 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped)
- 1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 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: 25 minutes
Yield: 4-6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse it under cold water until it’s completely cool.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the corn and cook until it’s lightly charred, bringing out its natural sweetness. Allow the corn to cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, charred corn, halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, finely chopped red onion, and fresh cilantro. Give it a gentle toss to mix everything together.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This creamy dressing adds all the warmth and flavor you’ll need.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently until everything is well coated.
- Carefully fold in the crumbled feta cheese, being cautious not to mash the avocado.
- Take a moment to taste your salad, adjusting the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve immediately for the freshest taste, or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch, consider adding jalapeños for a spicy kick or additional veggies like bell peppers for more crunch. This salad keeps well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day lunches.
Cooking Techniques
Charring the corn enhances its sweetness and adds a lovely smoky flavor, which complements the fresh ingredients beautifully. If you prefer, you can also grill the corn on the cob and scrape off the kernels for an even more authentic taste.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow and rotini work wonderfully, feel free to experiment with any pasta shape you love.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this salad gluten-free by opting for gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free!
Conclusion
This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is not just a dish; it’s an experience filled with lively flavors and textures. Whether you’re enjoying a sunny afternoon outdoors or serving it as a side for dinner, it’s sure to make everyone smile. Give it a try, and watch it become a new favorite in your recipe collection!