This vibrant Mexican pasta salad combines the best of fresh, grilled corn, tangy lime, and creamy avocado with hearty elbow macaroni. A perfect side dish for summer barbecues, it’s packed with flavor and texture.
Photos of Mexican Pasta Salad Recipe
Some ingredients like cotija cheese and ancho chili powder might not be found in every pantry. When heading to the supermarket, look for cotija cheese in the dairy section, usually near specialty cheeses. Ancho chili powder can be found in the spice aisle. Fresh cilantro and avocado are also essential for this recipe.
Ingredients For Mexican Pasta Salad
corn: Fresh, sweet corn adds a delightful crunch and a smoky flavor when grilled.
elbow macaroni: Classic pasta shape that holds up well to the creamy dressing.
roma tomatoes: Firm and flavorful tomatoes that add a burst of freshness.
black beans: Protein-packed beans that add heartiness to the salad.
avocado: Creamy and rich, avocado brings a luxurious texture.
cotija cheese: A salty, crumbly Mexican cheese that adds a unique flavor.
red onion: Sharp and slightly sweet, red onion provides a nice contrast.
mayonnaise: Creamy base for the dressing that binds everything together.
plain greek yogurt: Adds tanginess and a creamy consistency to the dressing.
lime juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice for a zesty kick.
cilantro: Fresh herb that adds a bright, citrusy flavor.
garlic: Adds depth and a mild kick to the dressing.
ancho chili powder: Provides a mild, smoky heat.
ground cumin: Earthy spice that enhances the overall flavor.
One reader, Estel Hutcheson says:
This Mexican pasta salad is a delightful fusion of flavors! The grilled corn and creamy avocado add a fresh twist, while the cilantro dressing ties everything together perfectly. A must-try for any summer gathering!
Key Techniques for Making Mexican Pasta Salad
How to grill corn: Preheat a grill over medium-high heat to about 450 degrees F. Add corn and grill for about 8 to 9 minutes total, turning about every 2 to 3 minutes until charred on all sides. Set aside and let cool, then cut corn kernels from cobs.
How to cook pasta: Cook pasta to al dente in lightly salted water (about ½ tablespoon) according to directions on the package. Drain and rinse, then let drain and cool.
How to make dressing: In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lime juice, cilantro, garlic, chili powder, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste (about ¾ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper). Chill until ready to assemble macaroni salad.
How to assemble salad: In a salad bowl, toss together drained macaroni, corn kernels, tomatoes, black beans, avocado, cotija cheese, onion, and the cilantro dressing mixture. Sprinkle set aside ingredients over top. Serve immediately or chill up to 2 hours. Thin with a little water if desired; it thickens as it rests since the noodles absorb the liquid.
How To Make Mexican Pasta Salad
Grab a tasty, filling meal with this Mexican pasta salad packed with black beans, corn, and tomatoes, in a creamy cilantro lime dressing.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2earsfresh yellow corn,husked
- 10ozdry elbow macaroni
- salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1½cupsRoma tomatoes,(3 large), seeded and diced
- 1canblack beans,drained and rinsed well
- 1large avocado,semi-firm but ripe, diced
- ½cupCotija cheese,crumbled
- ⅓cupred onion,chopped, rinsed, or ⅔ cup chopped green onion or use a blend of both
For Dressing:
- ½cupmayonnaise,full fat
- ½cupplain Greek yogurt,fat free
- 2½tbspfresh lime juice
- ¼cupfresh cilantro,(about small 1 bunch), finely minced, leaf portion
- 1clovegarlic,minced
- 1tspancho chili powder
- ½tspground cumin
Instructions
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Preheat a grill over medium-high heat to about 450 degrees F.
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Once preheated, add corn and grill for about 8 to 9 minutes total, turning about every 2 to 3 minutes until charred on all sides. Set aside and let cool then cut corn kernels from cobs.
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Meanwhile, cook pasta to al dente in lightly salted water (about½ tablespoon) according to directions on the package. Drain and rinse, then let drain and cool.
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For the dressing, in a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lime juice, cilantro, garlic, chili powder, cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste (about ¾ teaspoon and salt ¼ teaspoon pepper). Chill until ready to assemble macaroni salad.
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Set aside some of the mix in ingredients (tomatoes, corn, avocado, onion) for topping if desired.
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In a salad bowl toss together drained macaroni, corn kernels, tomatoes, black beans, avocado, Cotija cheese, onion, and the cilantro dressing mixture. Sprinkle set aside ingredients over top.
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Serve immediately or chill up to 2 hours. Thin with a little water if desired; it thickens as it rests since the noodles absorb the liquid.
Nutrition
- Calories: 432.15kcal
- Fat: 20.39g
- Saturated Fat: 4.53g
- Trans Fat: 0.00g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 6.76g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.89g
- Carbohydrates: 51.76g
- Fiber: 9.88g
- Sugar: 7.79g
- Protein: 13.83g
- Cholesterol: 15.52mg
- Sodium: 814.27mg
- Calcium: 128.39mg
- Potassium: 874.53mg
- Iron: 2.50mg
- Vitamin A: 91.40µg
- Vitamin C: 28.97mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Mexican Pasta Salad Success
When grilling corn, ensure you rotate the ears frequently to achieve an even char. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful smoky element to the salad. If you don't have a grill, you can achieve a similar effect by broiling the corn in the oven, turning it every few minutes until evenly charred.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Mexican Pasta Salad
Grill corn ahead: Grill the corn a day before and store it in the fridge to save time on the day of preparation.
Use canned beans: Opt for canned black beans instead of cooking dried beans to cut down on prep time.
Pre-chop vegetables: Chop the tomatoes, avocado, and red onion in advance and store them in airtight containers.
Make dressing early: Prepare the dressing a day ahead and keep it chilled until you’re ready to mix the salad.
Cook pasta in advance: Cook the pasta the night before, rinse, and store it in the fridge to streamline the process.
Substitute Ingredients For Mexican Pasta Salad Recipe
2 ears fresh yellow corn - Substitute with 1 can of corn kernels: Canned corn is a convenient alternative that saves time and still provides a similar texture and sweetness.
10 oz dry elbow macaroni - Substitute with 10 oz rotini pasta: Rotini pasta has a similar cooking time and holds the dressing well due to its spiral shape.
salt and freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with sea salt and white pepper: Sea salt and white pepper offer a slightly different flavor profile but still season the dish effectively.
1½ cups roma tomatoes - Substitute with 1½ cups cherry tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are sweeter and can add a burst of flavor to each bite.
1 can black beans - Substitute with 1 can pinto beans: Pinto beans have a similar texture and flavor, making them a good alternative.
1 large avocado - Substitute with 1 large cucumber: Cucumber provides a refreshing crunch and can be used if avocados are unavailable.
½ cup cotija cheese - Substitute with ½ cup feta cheese: Feta cheese has a similar crumbly texture and tangy flavor, making it a suitable replacement.
⅓ cup red onion - Substitute with ⅓ cup green onions: Green onions offer a milder flavor and can be used as a substitute for red onions.
½ cup mayonnaise - Substitute with ½ cup sour cream: Sour cream provides a similar creamy texture and tanginess, making it a good alternative.
½ cup plain greek yogurt - Substitute with ½ cup regular plain yogurt: Regular plain yogurt can be used if Greek yogurt is not available, though it may be slightly less thick.
2½ tbsp fresh lime juice - Substitute with 2½ tbsp lemon juice: Lemon juice offers a similar acidity and brightness to the dressing.
¼ cup fresh cilantro - Substitute with ¼ cup fresh parsley: Fresh parsley provides a different but still fresh and vibrant flavor.
1 clove garlic - Substitute with 1 tsp garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a convenient alternative to fresh garlic.
1 tsp ancho chili powder - Substitute with 1 tsp smoked paprika: Smoked paprika provides a similar smoky flavor without the heat.
½ tsp ground cumin - Substitute with ½ tsp ground coriander: Ground coriander offers a different but complementary flavor to the dish.
Presentation Tips for a Delightful Mexican Pasta Salad
Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the mexican pasta salad in elegant, small bowls or plates to highlight the vibrant colors and textures. This allows each ingredient to shine and makes the dish look more refined.
Use decoration: Garnish the salad with a few whole cilantro leaves and a sprinkle of cotija cheese on top. This adds a touch of freshness and visual appeal.
Highlight the grilled corn: Place a few whole kernels of the charred corn on top of the salad. This emphasizes the smoky flavor and adds a rustic charm to the presentation.
Layer the ingredients: Instead of mixing everything together, layer the macaroni, black beans, tomatoes, avocado, and red onion in a clear glass bowl. This creates a beautiful, colorful display that showcases each component.
Drizzle the dressing: Lightly drizzle the cilantro dressing over the top of the salad just before serving. This adds a glossy finish and ensures that the dressing is evenly distributed without overwhelming the dish.
Add a citrus twist: Place a thin slice of lime on the edge of the plate or bowl. This not only adds a pop of color but also hints at the lime juice used in the dressing, enhancing the overall presentation.
Use a contrasting plate: Serve the salad on a dark-colored plate to make the vibrant colors of the ingredients stand out. This contrast draws the eye and makes the dish look more appetizing.
Incorporate texture: Add a few crispy tortilla strips on top of the salad for an extra layer of texture. This provides a delightful crunch and complements the creamy avocado and cotija cheese.
Serve immediately: Ensure the salad is served fresh to maintain the crispness of the vegetables and the creaminess of the dressing. This keeps the flavors vibrant and the textures perfect.
Storing and Freezing Mexican Pasta Salad
- To store the Mexican pasta salad, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will meld together and intensify over time, making it even more delicious.
- If you plan to make the salad ahead of time, it's best to wait until just before serving to add the avocado and cotija cheese. This will prevent the avocado from turning brown and the cheese from becoming soggy.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the Mexican pasta salad. However, keep in mind that the texture of the pasta and vegetables may change slightly after thawing.
- To freeze, transfer the salad to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Seal the container tightly and label it with the date.
- Freeze the Mexican pasta salad for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the salad overnight in the refrigerator.
- After thawing, give the salad a good stir to redistribute the dressing. If the salad seems a bit dry, you can add a splash of lime juice or a dollop of sour cream to refresh the flavors and texture.
- Garnish the thawed salad with fresh cilantro, avocado, and cotija cheese before serving for a burst of fresh flavor and visual appeal.
Interesting Fact About Mexican Pasta Salad
A fun fact about this Mexican pasta salad is that it combines traditional Mexican ingredients like corn, black beans, and cotija cheese with a creamy dressing made from mayonnaise and Greek yogurt. This fusion creates a unique and flavorful dish that can be served as a main course or a side salad.
Is Making Mexican Pasta Salad at Home Cost-Effective?
This Mexican pasta salad recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like elbow macaroni, black beans, and corn are affordable and widely available. Fresh produce such as roma tomatoes and avocado add nutritional value without breaking the bank. The dressing components like mayonnaise and Greek yogurt are pantry staples. Overall, this dish scores a solid 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20 USD.
Is Mexican Pasta Salad Healthy or Unhealthy?
This Mexican pasta salad recipe offers a mix of healthy and indulgent ingredients. On the positive side, it includes:
- Fresh vegetables like corn, tomatoes, avocado, and onion, which provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals
- Black beans, a good source of plant-based protein and fiber
- Greek yogurt in the dressing, adding protein and calcium while reducing fat compared to using only mayonnaise
- Cilantro, garlic, and spices, offering antioxidants and flavor without added calories
However, there are some less healthy aspects:
- Mayonnaise in the dressing, which is high in fat and calories
- Cotija cheese, a type of cheese that can be high in saturated fat and sodium
- Pasta, a refined carbohydrate that can cause blood sugar spikes and is lower in fiber than whole grain options
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following tweaks:
- Swap the elbow macaroni for a whole grain or legume-based pasta to increase fiber and nutrients
- Reduce the amount of mayonnaise in the dressing or replace it entirely with additional Greek yogurt
- Use a low-fat cheese or reduce the amount of cotija cheese to decrease saturated fat and calories
- Add more vegetables, such as bell peppers, cucumber, or leafy greens, to boost the nutrient content and fiber
- Include a lean protein source like grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a more balanced meal
By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the flavors of this Mexican-inspired pasta salad while improving its overall nutritional value. The recipe already has a good foundation of fresh ingredients, so with a few modifications, it can become a healthier option suitable for various dietary preferences.
Editor's Opinion on This Mexican Pasta Salad Recipe
This Mexican pasta salad recipe is a vibrant fusion of flavors and textures. Grilled corn adds a smoky sweetness, while black beans and cotija cheese provide a hearty, savory contrast. The creamy dressing, with its tangy lime and earthy spices, ties everything together beautifully. The use of fresh ingredients like avocado and cilantro elevates the dish, making it both refreshing and satisfying. It's versatile enough to serve immediately or chilled, making it perfect for gatherings. Overall, it's a delightful and well-balanced dish that brings a taste of Mexico to your table.
Enhance Your Mexican Pasta Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to Mexican Pasta Salad
Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Mexican Pasta Salad
Why trust this Mexican Pasta Salad Recipe:
This Mexican pasta salad recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the smoky char of grilled corn with the creamy richness of avocado and cotija cheese. The cilantro-lime dressing adds a refreshing zest, perfectly complementing the hearty black beans and elbow macaroni. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to create a harmonious balance, ensuring a satisfying and delicious dish. Trust this recipe for its authentic taste and easy-to-follow instructions, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire.
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