“🌽 Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad 🌽 Creamy Elote-Inspired Pasta Salad

Ingredients:
– 12 oz 340g pasta penne or rotini
– 3 cups corn kernels fresh, frozen, or canned
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese or feta
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the corn and sauté until slightly charred, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, charred corn, diced red bell pepper, chopped red onion, and crumbled cotija cheese.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat evenly.
6. Add the chopped cilantro and mix well. Adjust seasoning if needed.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes Servings: 6 servings”