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Zesty Creamy Mexican Macaroni Salad

zesty creamy mexican macaroni salad - featured image
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A tangy, creamy macaroni salad with a smoky chipotle kick and fresh veggies, perfect for BBQs and potlucks. Easy to make and crowd-pleasing with a vibrant Mexican flavor twist.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (about 200g) uncooked elbow macaroni
  • 3/4 cup (180ml) mayonnaise, preferably full-fat
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup sweet corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
  • 1/2 cup (about 75g) diced red bell pepper
  • 1/4 cup (about 30g) chopped green onions
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 2 cups (200g) of elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking.
  2. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking process and cool the noodles.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup (180ml) mayonnaise, 1/4 cup (60ml) sour cream, 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice, 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  4. Toss the drained macaroni into the bowl with the dressing. Mix well to coat every piece.
  5. Fold in 1 cup sweet corn kernels, 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper, 1/4 cup chopped green onions, and 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro. Stir gently to maintain texture.
  6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight to let flavors meld.
  7. Before serving, stir gently, taste again for seasoning, and add extra lime juice or salt if needed. Optionally, sprinkle with toasted pepitas or diced avocado.

Notes

Cook macaroni al dente to avoid mushy salad. Rinse pasta with cold water to stop cooking and cool noodles. Use fresh lime juice for best flavor. Adjust chipotle powder to taste for desired heat. Chill at least 1 hour or overnight for best flavor. Optionally add diced avocado or toasted pepitas before serving. Vegan and gluten-free versions possible with ingredient swaps.

Nutrition

Keywords: macaroni salad, Mexican macaroni salad, creamy macaroni salad, BBQ side dish, potluck recipe, chipotle macaroni salad, easy pasta salad

Find it online: https://emacrave.com/zesty-creamy-mexican-macaroni-salad-recipe-easy-perfect-for-bbqs/