Name: Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad: Best Easy Recipe with Turkey Bacon
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 cups mini bowtie pasta (measured uncooked); 3 cups frozen corn (see note 1); 3 green onions (1/3 cup finely diced); 1/2 bunch cilantro (1/2 cup finely diced); 1 tablespoon finely diced jalapeño; 8 slices bacon (cooked & finely diced); 1/3 cup cotija cheese; 1 large avocado (diced); 1/2 cup black beans (canned, drained and rinsed); 1/2 cup mayo; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; 1/4 teaspoon paprika; 1/8 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon Sriracha; 2 large limes; Salt; Pepper

Introduction to Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

What is Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

If you're on the hunt for a delicious dish that perfectly captures the spirit of summer, look no further than Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad. This vibrant salad combines the classic flavors of Mexican street corn, known for its rich combination of sweet, tangy, and spicy elements, with pasta to create a filling, mouthwatering side or main dish.

Imagine biting into tender mini bowtie pasta mixed with sweet grilled corn, zesty lime juice, and a hint of spice from fresh jalapeños. Toss in crunchy turkey bacon, creamy avocado, and a sprinkle of crumbly cotija cheese, and you've got a dish that offers a delightful crunch and creamy texture in every bite. It’s perfect for summer barbecues, picnic lunches, or any gathering where you want to impress your friends and family.

What makes this salad truly special? It's not just a blend of ingredients; it’s a celebration of flavors! With a dressing that marries mayo with zesty spices and fresh lime juice, this salad is sure to leave everyone coming back for more. Plus, it’s a cinch to make. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Creating the perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad starts with a vibrant combination of flavors and textures. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delicious dish to life:

Salad Components

Mini Bowtie Pasta: 2 cups of uncooked mini farfalle pasta is the heart of this salad.
Frozen Corn: 3 cups will give you that sweet burst of corn flavor, but you can also use fresh if it's in season.
Green Onions: 3 finely diced green onions add a mild oniony crunch.
Cilantro: Half a bunch, diced, brings that signature fresh herbaceous flavor.
Jalapeño: 1 tablespoon finely diced for a gentle kick.
Turkey Bacon: 8 slices, cooked and diced, lend that savory, smoky depth.
Cotija Cheese: ⅓ cup grates over your salad beautifully.
Avocado: 1 large, diced for creaminess.
Black Beans: ½ cup, canned, drained, and rinsed, contribute protein and richness.

Dressing Essentials

Mayonnaise: ½ cup provides creaminess.
Spices: A mix of chili powder, paprika, and cumin adds warmth and flavor.
Sriracha: For a little extra heat, 1 teaspoon does the trick.
Limes: Juice from 2 large limes brightens everything up.
Salt and Pepper: To taste.

With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion! For shopping convenience, consider checking out sites like Walmart for easy access to all your needed ingredients.

Preparing Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Ready to dive into the delicious world of Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad? This vibrant dish is an irresistible combination of flavors and textures that’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or even a casual weeknight dinner. Let’s break down the steps to bring this delightful salad to life.

Cook the Mini Bowtie Pasta

Start by boiling 12 cups of water in a large pot. Don’t forget to add about a tablespoon of salt to the boiling water for extra flavor! Toss in 2 cups of mini bowtie pasta and cook according to package directions, usually around 7-10 minutes, or until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water for about 15 seconds to stop the cooking process. Let it dry while you prepare the rest of your ingredients.

Prepare the Corn

For that authentic Mexican street corn flavor, you can choose from several methods for the corn:

Grilled: Husk your corn, brush it with oil, and grill it at 400°F, turning every three minutes until beautifully browned (about 12 minutes). This will give it a smoky flavor.
Pan-Cooked: If grilling isn’t an option, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a hot pan, add 3 cups of frozen corn, and cook for about 10 minutes until it’s slightly charred. This adds that delicious caramelization.
Canned Corn: You can also use 2 (15-ounce) cans of drained corn for convenience.

Let your corn cool down before mixing it in with the pasta.

Chop the Veggies and Turkey Bacon

Next up, it’s veggie time! Chop 3 green onions, half a bunch of cilantro, and a tablespoon of jalapeño for a spicy kick. Don’t forget to cook and chop 8 slices of Turkey Bacon until crispy. Finally, drain and rinse ½ cup of black beans for added protein and texture. Dice one large avocado last to keep it fresh and vibrant.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup of mayonnaise, ½ teaspoon of chili powder, ¼ teaspoon of paprika, ⅛ teaspoon of ground cumin, and 1 teaspoon of Sriracha. Squeeze in the juice of 2 large limes and add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. This dressing ties all the flavors together and packs a punch!

Assemble the Salad

Now, for the fun part! In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooled pasta, corn, black beans, diced avocado, and all the chopped veggies and Turkey Bacon. If you plan to serve it later, hold off on adding the bacon, cheese, and avocado until just before serving to keep everything fresh. Drizzle your homemade dressing over the salad, and gently toss everything together until well combined. It’s a colorful dish that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat!

Enjoy your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad right away, or chill it for a couple of hours to let the flavors meld even more. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or with friends, this salad is bound to become a favorite!

Variations on Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Adding Grilled Chicken or Shrimp

For a heartier Mexican street corn pasta salad, consider incorporating grilled chicken or succulent shrimp. These protein-packed additions not only elevate the dish but also make it a complete meal perfect for lunch or dinner. Simply season the protein of your choice with lime, garlic, and spices before grilling. Toss the warm protein into your salad for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. It’s an effortless way to make this dish both filling and satisfying!

Spicy Twists with Extra Jalapeño

If you crave a little kick, why not spice up your Mexican street corn pasta salad with extra jalapeño? Chopping more jalapeños or experimenting with pickled varieties can heighten the flavor without overwhelming your palate. For those who truly love heat, adding a dash of cayenne pepper to your dressing will tantalize taste buds and keep your guests coming back for more. Remember, the world of spices is vast—feel free to get creative and find your perfect level of spiciness!

Cooking tips and notes for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

When making your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, consider the following tips for the best flavor and texture:

Cook your pasta al dente: This will keep the pasta slightly firm and prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the other ingredients.
Fresh ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh ingredients like avocado and cilantro for vibrant flavors. Diced avocado should be added last to maintain its freshness.
Customizable dressing: Feel free to adjust the seasoning in your dressing. For added heat, increase the Sriracha a bit. If you prefer a tangier flavor, add more lime juice.
Storage tips: If preparing ahead, store the salad and dressing separately to maintain the texture of ingredients like Turkey Bacon and cheese.

Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Serving Suggestions for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

When it comes to enjoying your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, consider pairing it with complimentary dishes and drinks that enhance its vibrant flavors.

Grilled proteins: Think about serving this salad alongside grilled chicken, shrimp, or even savory turkey bacon for a delightful combination of textures and tastes.
Fresh accompaniments: Complement your meal with fresh sliced avocados or a refreshing tomato salsa. These fresh elements really elevate the experience!
Beverage pairing: For drinks, opt for chilled lemonade or a sparkling aguas frescas for a thirst-quenching touch that balances the pasta's richness.

Whether it’s a picnic, BBQ, or a simple weeknight dinner, these suggestions will surely impress your friends and family. Enjoy!

Time Breakdown for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Preparation Time

Get ready to whip up a delightful dish! Preparation time for the Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is approximately 15 minutes. This is where you’ll gather your ingredients and chop those fresh veggies to add a burst of flavor!

Cooking Time

Now it’s time to cook! The cooking time for this salad, including boiling pasta and preparing corn, takes about 20 minutes. Perfect for a quick meal on a busy day!

Total Time

In total, you're looking at about 35 minutes to bring this delicious Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad to your table. Whether it’s for a casual lunch or a festive gathering, it's worth every minute!

By the way, looking for pasta options? Check out mini bowtie pasta from Walmart for quality and convenience!

Nutritional Facts for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

When you're craving a delicious bite packed with flavor, the Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad has you covered! Here’s a quick look at its nutritional profile:

Calories

Each serving of this vibrant salad contains approximately 692 calories, perfect for a satisfying meal or side dish.

Protein

You'll get about 21 grams of protein from ingredients like turkey bacon and black beans, making it a hearty choice for those looking to fuel their day.

Sodium

With only 305 mg of sodium per serving, this salad offers a flavorful option while keeping your salt intake in check.

For more insights on balancing nutrition with taste, check out this guide on healthy eating by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics!

FAQs about Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! Preparing your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad in advance is a smart way to save time during busy weeks or when entertaining. Just be sure to keep the salad and the dressing separate until you're ready to serve. This will help maintain the freshness of the avocado, turkey bacon, and cotija cheese. If stored properly in an airtight container, you can expect it to stay fresh for about 3 days in the fridge.

What substitutes can I use for the ingredients?

If you're looking for alternatives, feel free to get creative! Instead of mini bowtie pasta, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rotini. For the dressing, swap mayo for Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Don't have cotija cheese? Feta works wonderfully too! For a vegan-friendly version, replace the turkey bacon with smoked tempeh.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Unfortunately, the primary ingredient here—pasta—isn't gluten-free unless specified. However, you can easily make a gluten-free version by substituting traditional pasta with gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to check your labels to keep it safe for those with dietary restrictions.

For more tips on accommodating dietary needs or to explore gluten-free pasta options, check out reputable sources like Celiac Disease Foundation or gluten-free product guides to make the perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad.

Conclusion on Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

In summary, Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that can brighten any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or prepping meals for the week, this salad is a crowd-pleaser packed with nutrients and a delightful crunch. Enjoy!