Ingredients
The Base
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
The Filling
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
The Dressing
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions on the next page 👇👇
Directions
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook it until al dente according to package instructions. This typically takes about 7-9 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This step is crucial for maintaining the right texture.
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Prepare the Corn: If using fresh corn, grill the corn on medium-high heat for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until it is charred and cooked through. Cut the kernels off the cob once it cools down. Alternatively, you can use frozen or canned corn for a tremendous time-saver, which works just as well in this recipe.
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Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This creamy dressing is the heart of your salad, providing a tangy counterpoint to the sweetness of the corn and tomatoes.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, prepared corn, cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, cilantro, and crumbled cotija cheese. Stir gently to mix them without mashing the ingredients.
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Dress the Salad: Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta mixture. Toss everything together until well-coated, ensuring that every ingredient is infused with that tremendous flavor.
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Let It Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making every bite even more enjoyable.
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Serve: When ready to serve, take the salad out of the fridge. If desired, garnish with additional lime wedges for extra zing and enjoy the fantastic mix of textures and tastes.
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