Esquites-Inspired Pasta Salad (Mexican Street Corn-Inspired)

Name: Esquites-Inspired Pasta Salad (Mexican Street Corn-Inspired)
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 13 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 16 ounces of fusilli pasta; 3 1/2 cups roasted/charred corn kernels; 1 cup vegan mayonnaise; Juice of 1 lime; 3 tablespoons vegan Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; 1/8 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste; 2 cloves garlic, diced; 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced; 1/2 red bell pepper, diced; 1/4 red onion, diced; Salt, to taste

Published: June 30, 2025

by Olivia

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In less than 15 minutes, you can enjoy this simple and delicious esquites-inspired pasta salad. Loaded with freshly roasted corn, vibrant cilantro, a creamy dressing bursting with spices, and hearty fusilli pasta, it’s an ideal budget-friendly side for picnics or gatherings all summer long! This unique twist on Mexican street corn will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Esquites-Inspired Pasta Salad (Mexican Street Corn-Inspired)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 13 minutes, you can whip up this flavorful dish in no time.
Versatile Flavor: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a delightful taste that pairs well with many meals.
Vegan-Friendly: Enjoy this creamy pasta salad without dairy, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
Perfect for Gatherings: This dish is great for picnics, potlucks, or as a side at barbecues—everyone will love it!
Budget-Friendly: Made with inexpensive ingredients, this recipe is kind to your wallet while still being delicious.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect esquites-inspired pasta salad, having the right tools makes the process easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Skillet
Mixing bowl
Knife
Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: This tool is essential for cooking the pasta evenly and quickly.
Skillet: Use this for roasting corn to achieve that amazing charred flavor.
Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl helps combine all ingredients thoroughly without mess.

Ingredients

Pasta and Corn

16 ounces of fusilli pasta
3 1/2 cups roasted/charred corn kernels

Creamy Dressing

1 cup vegan mayonnaise
Juice of 1 lime
3 tablespoons vegan Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves

Spices and Vegetables

1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/8 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
2 cloves garlic, diced
1 jalapeño, seeded and diced
1/2 red bell pepper, diced
1/4 red onion, diced
Salt, to taste

How to Make Esquites-Inspired Pasta Salad (Mexican Street Corn-Inspired)

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Prepare the fusilli pasta according to package directions. Once cooked, drain it and set it aside to cool.

Step 2: Roast the Corn

You can use frozen roasted corn or roast fresh corn as follows:
– Husk the corn. Cut the kernels off the cobs using a knife. A handy trick is to balance the cob on an upside-down small bowl inside a larger bowl so that kernels fall into the larger bowl.

Roasting methods:
– Stovetop: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil (or vegan butter) along with the corn kernels. Cook while stirring occasionally until lightly charred (about 8-10 minutes). Season with salt and pepper before setting aside to cool.

Oven: Brush olive oil on each ear of corn. Wrap them individually in foil and bake at 400 degrees F for 30 minutes (flipping halfway). Unwrap and broil until charred as desired.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
– Vegan mayonnaise
– Lime juice
– Vegan parmesan cheese
– Fresh cilantro
– Chili powder
– Cumin
– Black pepper
– Diced garlic

Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooled pasta along with:
– Jalapeños
– Bell pepper
– Red onion

Stir everything together until well coated. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Garnish your salad with extra vegan parmesan, additional corn kernels, and fresh cilantro for added flair.

Optional Step: Chill

For enhanced flavors, chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Esquites-Inspired Pasta Salad (Mexican Street Corn-Inspired)

Serving esquites-inspired pasta salad is a delightful way to bring a taste of summer to your table. This vibrant dish works well for any occasion, from casual picnics to festive gatherings.

As a Standalone Dish

Perfect for lunch: Enjoy this pasta salad as a refreshing lunch option that’s both filling and satisfying.
Light dinner: Pair it with a simple soup or side for a quick and easy dinner.

At Summer Gatherings

BBQ side: Serve this pasta salad alongside grilled vegetables or burgers at your next barbecue.
Potluck favorite: Bring it to potlucks; it’s sure to be a hit among guests.

As Meal Prep

Easy weekday meals: Pack individual servings for an on-the-go meal during busy workdays.
Flavorful leftovers: The flavors deepen over time, making it even tastier the next day.

With Extra Toppings

Crunchy toppings: Add crushed tortilla chips or pumpkin seeds for added texture and crunch.
Fresh herbs: Garnish with more cilantro or green onions to enhance the flavor profile.

How to Perfect Esquites-Inspired Pasta Salad (Mexican Street Corn-Inspired)

To ensure you create the best esquites-inspired pasta salad, follow these helpful tips.

Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh corn when possible, as it enhances the overall flavor and texture of the salad.
Customize spice levels: Adjust the amount of jalapeño based on your heat preference; remove seeds for less heat.
Chill before serving: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to let flavors meld beautifully.
Experiment with herbs: Try adding parsley or dill for a unique twist on flavor that complements the corn well.

Best Side Dishes for Esquites-Inspired Pasta Salad (Mexican Street Corn-Inspired)

Pairing esquites-inspired pasta salad with side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options.

Grilled Veggies: Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus lightly seasoned and grilled add color and flavor.
Black Bean Tacos: Soft tortillas filled with spiced black beans provide protein and are perfect for scooping up salad.
Avocado Toast: Crisp bread topped with mashed avocado makes for a creamy and satisfying addition.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds sweetness that balances out the savory pasta salad.
Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with zesty salsa create an enjoyable crunch alongside your dish.
Coleslaw: A tangy cabbage slaw brings crunch and acidity, complementing the creamy pasta salad perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make simple mistakes when preparing Esquites-Inspired Pasta Salad. Avoiding these will ensure your salad is perfect every time.

Skipping the cooling step – It’s important to let the pasta cool after cooking. If you add warm pasta to the dressing, it can cause the dressing to separate and become less creamy.
Using unroasted corn – Fresh corn makes a big difference in flavor. If you skip roasting, you miss out on that charred, sweet taste that elevates the dish.
Overseasoning – While seasoning is crucial, too much salt or spice can overpower the other flavors. Start with less and adjust as needed, tasting as you go.
Not chilling before serving – Chilling enhances the flavors and allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully. Don’t skip this step for the best result.
Neglecting garnishes – Garnishes like additional cilantro or vegan parmesan can elevate presentation and flavor. Always finish with a little extra for that professional touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Keep refrigerated to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing Esquites-Inspired Pasta Salad (Mexican Street Corn-Inspired)

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.

Reheating Esquites-Inspired Pasta Salad (Mexican Street Corn-Inspired)

Oven – Preheat to 350°F and heat in a covered dish for about 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover; heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Stovetop – Heat gently in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or vegetable broth if it seems dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Esquites-Inspired Pasta Salad that might help you perfect your dish.

What is Esquites-Inspired Pasta Salad (Mexican Street Corn-Inspired)?

Esquites-Inspired Pasta Salad combines traditional Mexican street corn flavors with pasta for a refreshing twist that’s both satisfying and easy to make.

Can I use regular mayonnaise instead of vegan mayonnaise?

Yes, if you’re not following a vegan diet, regular mayonnaise can be used. However, it may alter the dish’s overall vegan-friendly appeal.

How long does Esquites-Inspired Pasta Salad last?

The salad lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I customize my Esquites-Inspired Pasta Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different veggies like zucchini or swap out spices based on your preference to create your perfect version!

Final Thoughts

This Esquites-Inspired Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for summer picnics or any gathering, it allows room for customization based on your taste preferences. Try adding extra veggies or spices to make it your own!