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–+ servings
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad You’ll Want at Every Picnic

A vibrant twist on pasta salad featuring Mexican street corn flavors, perfect for summer picnics.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni or penne for gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta
For the Corn
  • 2 cups sweet corn kernels fresh or frozen
  • 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil for dairy-free
For the Creamy Dressing
  • 1 cup mayonnaise Greek yogurt can lighten it up
  • 2 tablespoons juice from lime fresh is best
For the Flavors
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro leaves or parsley
  • 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese or feta cheese
  • 1 medium jalapeño pepper optional

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat, add corn kernels, and cook until golden brown, about 8-10 minutes.
  3. Once cooled, stir in chili powder and smoked paprika to the charred corn.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, charred corn, mayonnaise, and lime juice. Add cotija cheese, cilantro, and jalapeño.
  5. Gently fold together until well-combined, adjusting with salt and pepper as needed.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 7gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For added texture, feel free to customize with additional ingredients like black beans or bell peppers. Serve it chilled with a splash of lime juice for an extra zing!

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