Corn Pasta Salad
This vibrant Corn Pasta Salad combines ditalini pasta, fresh corn, red onion, cotija cheese, and a zesty lime dressing for a refreshing, flavorful dish perfect for gatherings or quick meals.
8 Servings
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 8 ounces ditalini pasta or salad macaroni
- 4 ears of corn kernels removed (approximately 4 cups)
- ¼ cup red onion finely chopped
- ¼ cup cotija cheese crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro finely chopped
For the Dressing:
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 1 –3 tablespoons Cholula hot sauce adjust to taste
- 2 –3 tablespoons fresh lime juice about 1 large lime
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ –1 teaspoon kosher salt adjust to taste
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon ground red chili powder
Instructions
Prepare the Pasta:
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, ensuring to add a generous tablespoon of kosher salt to the boiling water for enhanced flavor. Once cooked to al dente, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to halt further cooking.
Make the Dressing:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, hot sauce, lime juice, sugar, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, black pepper, and red chili powder. Whisk the ingredients until the mixture is smooth and well blended. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Combine Ingredients:
- Add the cooked and cooled pasta, fresh corn kernels, and finely chopped red onion to the bowl containing the dressing. Using tongs or a large spoon, gently toss the ingredients until they are evenly coated with the dressing.
Finish with Garnishes:
- Sprinkle the salad with crumbled cotija cheese and freshly chopped cilantro. Stir lightly to distribute. Taste once more and adjust seasoning, adding a touch of salt or lime juice if required.
Serve or Chill:
- Serve the salad immediately for a fresh taste, or refrigerate it for an hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the ditalini pasta with a gluten-free pasta variety of your choice. Ensure all other ingredients, particularly the mayonnaise and hot sauce, are certified gluten-free.
Enjoy this Corn Pasta Salad as a flavorful, versatile dish that complements a variety of meals!