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Mexican Street Corn Orzo Pasta Salad

A close-up of Mexican Street Corn Orzo Pasta Salad topped with crumbled white cheese and fresh parsley.
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A refreshing orzo pasta salad combining the smoky, creamy, and tangy flavors of Mexican Street Corn (Elote) into a simple side dish.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups frozen or fresh corn kernels
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Mexican crema
  • 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese, plus more for topping
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
  • Tajin seasoning, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the orzo pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to cool it down. Set aside.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the corn kernels and cook, stirring occasionally, until the corn is lightly charred in spots, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  3. Prepare the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or crema), lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the cooled orzo, charred corn, chopped cilantro, and red onion.
  5. Pour the dressing over the orzo mixture. Add the 1/4 cup of crumbled cotija cheese. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
  6. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more lime juice or salt.
  7. Cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
  8. Serve cold, garnished with extra cotija cheese and a sprinkle of Tajin, if desired.

Notes

  • If you do not have fresh corn, canned corn works, but you must drain it well before charring it in the skillet.
  • For a spicier dressing, add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing mixture.
  • You can substitute feta cheese for cotija if cotija is unavailable, though the flavor profile will change slightly.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorsensations.com/mexican-street-corn-orzo-pasta-salad/