Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients:
- For the Salad:
- 2 cups pasta (fusilli, penne, or elbow macaroni)
- 3 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (grilled for authentic flavor)
- 1/2 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese (or feta cheese as a substitute), crumbled
- For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional Garnishes:
- Extra cotija cheese
- Lime wedges
- A sprinkle of Tajín or chili powder
Instructions
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta, rinse with cold water to stop the cooking, and set aside.
Step 2: Grill the Corn
- If using fresh corn, shuck the ears and grill them over medium-high heat until slightly charred, turning frequently. This adds a smoky, authentic flavor.
- Once cooled, cut the kernels off the cob. For frozen corn, sauté in a hot skillet until lightly browned.
Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables
- Dice the red bell pepper and red onion into small, uniform pieces.
- Chop the cilantro finely, reserving some for garnish.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Step 5: Combine the Salad
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, grilled corn, red bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
- Gently fold in the crumbled cotija cheese.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
- Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Before serving, garnish with extra cotija cheese, a sprinkle of chili powder or Tajín, and lime wedges on the side.
Notes
- To save time, you can use canned or frozen corn, but grilling fresh corn elevates the dish with a smoky depth.
- Avoid overcooking the pasta to maintain its structure in the salad.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 15 min
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Protein: 10