The pasta is tender, yet still retains some chew.

It comes lightly coated in a mayo-based dressing that tends to soak in the more it sits.

The ancho chile powder adds a nice smoky heat to finish off thisMexican-inspiredpasta dish.

Southern Living Elote Pasta Salad in a bowl to serve

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Learn how to make Mexican street corn pasta salad.

This salad can be fully assembled on the morning of serving, or at most, one day ahead.

Making it in advance can have the added benefit of giving the flavors time to meld and deepen.

Southern Living Elote Pasta Salad ingredients

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Assemble the salad as directed before serving.

Serve as a fresh side to grilled chicken, beef, orbarbecue ribs.

it’s possible for you to also top leftovers with shredded chicken for a hearty weeknight option.

Southern Living Elote Pasta Salad preparing the corn for the grill

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pkg.orecchiette pasta, cooked according to pkg.

onion)

1/3cupchopped mild pickled jalapeno chilesplus2Tbsp.liquid from jar(from 1 [12-oz.]

Brush corn with oil; sprinkle evenly with 1 teaspoon of the salt.

Southern Living Elote Pasta Salad grilling the corn

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Let corn stand until cool enough to handle, about 15 minutes.

Cut off kernels; discard cobs.

Garnish with chile powder, Cotija, and cilantro.

Southern Living Elote Pasta Salad cutting the corn off of the cobs

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Southern Living Elote Pasta Salad whisking together the dressing for the pasta salad

Credit:Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen

Southern Living Elote Pasta Salad stirring the corn and pasta into the dressing

Credit:Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen

Southern Living Elote Pasta Salad sprinkling the pasta salad with cheese

Credit:Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen