Description
A refined twist on classic Mexican street corn, this pasta salad combines charred corn, bright lime, and tangy crema for an impressive dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz (340 g) short pasta (cavatappi, fusilli, or rigatoni), cooked al dente and cooled slightly
- 3 cups fresh corn kernels (about 4 ears) or thawed frozen corn, drained
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise (room temperature)
- 1/3 cup Mexican crema or sour cream
- Zest and juice of 2 limes
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1 garlic clove, grated
- 3/4 cup cotija or feta, crumbled
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter (room temperature)
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 jalapeño, finely diced; toasted pepitas for crunch
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in well-salted boiling water until al dente. Drain, reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, and set the pasta aside warm.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and butter until shimmering. Add corn in an even layer and sear for 2–3 minutes until golden, then stir and allow another 2 minutes for even char.
- In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, crema, lime zest, lime juice, smoked paprika, chili powder, grated garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine warm pasta and charred corn in a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over and toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time to reach a silky consistency.
- Fold in half the cotija, scallions, cilantro, and optional jalapeño. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Transfer to a serving bowl, finishing with remaining cotija, smoked paprika, and toasted pepitas if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
For best flavor, serve with lime wedges and extra cotija. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg