Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

This Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) combines the vibrant flavors of traditional Mexican street corn with a delightful twist of pasta. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or as a refreshing side dish, this salad delivers a creamy and zesty taste that everyone will love. With roasted corn, cotija cheese, and fresh herbs, each bite is packed with flavor that’s sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful: The combination of roasted corn, spices, and creamy dressing creates a delicious blend that captures the essence of Mexican street food.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a main dish or a side at any occasion, from summer cookouts to holiday feasts.
• Healthy Ingredients: With whole corn, Greek yogurt, and fresh veggies, it’s a nutritious option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This pasta salad is sure to be a hit at parties or family dinners; everyone will ask for the recipe!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make preparing this Elote Pasta Salad effortless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet (if using frozen corn)
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly while ensuring it cooks perfectly al dente.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without spilling.
• Whisk or spoon: Helps achieve a smooth consistency in your dressing for better flavor distribution.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Salad

• 8 oz pasta, dry
• 4 cups whole corn kernels (454g), or 16 oz bag of frozen corn
• ½ cup cotija cheese, crumbled (75g), or queso fresco, feta, or parmesan cheese
• ½ a red onion, diced (215g)
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (8g), or fresh parsley
• 1 jalapeno pepper, pulp and seeds removed, chopped

For the Dressing

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (226g)
• 2 Tbsp mayonnaise (30g)
• 1 lime, zest and juice (about 2 Tbsp lime juice)
• ½ tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

How to Make Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook pasta according to the package directions. If you prefer al dente pasta, cook it 1-2 minutes less than what is recommended. Once cooked, drain and toss with a drizzle of olive oil. Allow it to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

If using fresh ears of corn:
* Coat with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
* Wrap in foil and roast at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes until tender.

If using frozen corn:
* Heat in a skillet on medium-high heat until thawed and warmed through (about 4–5 minutes).

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl:
* Combine Greek yogurt, olive oil mayonnaise, lime zest, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper.
* Mix well with a whisk or spoon until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl:
* Add cooled pasta along with roasted corn kernels.
* Stir in cilantro, red onion, cotija cheese, and jalapeno.
* Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Step 5: Serve Fresh

If preparing in advance:
* Wait to add cotija cheese and cilantro until just before serving for freshness.

How to Serve Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

Elote Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet meal at home, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

As a Main Dish

• This pasta salad can be served as a refreshing main dish, especially during warm months. It’s filling and packed with flavors, making it perfect for lunch or dinner.

At Potlucks and Gatherings

• Bring this salad to your next potluck! Its vibrant colors and unique taste will impress guests and pair well with other dishes.

As a Side Dish

• Serve it alongside grilled meats or tacos for a delightful complement. The creamy dressing and fresh ingredients balance out richer flavors beautifully.

In Meal Prep

• Pack individual servings in containers for an easy grab-and-go lunch during the week. It stays fresh and delicious!

With Extra Toppings

• Add sliced avocados or extra cotija cheese on top before serving for an added layer of flavor and texture.

How to Perfect Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

To achieve the best Elote Pasta Salad, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose the right pasta: Opt for short pasta shapes like rotini or penne, which hold onto the dressing and ingredients better.
• Use fresh corn: If possible, use fresh roasted corn instead of frozen for a more authentic taste. The sweet, smoky flavor enhances the salad.
• Chill before serving: Allow the pasta salad to chill in the fridge for at least an hour. This lets the flavors meld beautifully.
• Adjust spice levels: Modify the jalapeño amount based on your tolerance for heat. You can also add diced bell peppers for sweetness.
• Experiment with herbs: While cilantro is traditional, try adding fresh parsley or green onions for additional flavor notes.
• Make it ahead: This dish can be made a day in advance. Just hold off on adding the cotija cheese until ready to serve for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

This pasta salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers are easy to make and add protein to your meal.
2. Black Bean Tacos: Flavorful black bean tacos bring additional texture and taste that harmonize well with the pasta salad.
3. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a comforting side that balances the tangy notes of the salad.
4. Avocado Salsa: A fresh avocado salsa adds creaminess and brightness, enhancing your dining experience.
5. Guacamole and Chips: Classic guacamole served with tortilla chips offers a fun crunch alongside your creamy salad.
6. Grilled Veggies: Seasonal grilled vegetables add color and nutrients while complementing the smoky undertones of the dish.
7. Tomato & Cucumber Salad: A light tomato and cucumber salad refreshes your palate while keeping with the theme of fresh ingredients.
8. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips paired with zesty salsa make a fun appetizer that everyone loves!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Elote Pasta Salad Recipe, it’s essential to steer clear of common pitfalls that can affect flavor and texture.

• Using overcooked pasta: Overcooked pasta can turn mushy in the salad. Aim for al dente by cooking it 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions.

• Skipping the roasting step: Roasting the corn enhances its flavor significantly. If using fresh corn, make sure to roast it for the best taste; grilled corn adds even more depth.

• Not letting the salad chill: Serving this salad immediately can lead to a less cohesive flavor. Allow it to chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld.

• Ignoring freshness of ingredients: Fresh herbs and ripe jalapeños add vibrancy to your salad. Always choose fresh ingredients for the best results.

• Forgetting about seasoning: Ensure you season each component adequately, especially when preparing the dressing. Adjust spices according to your taste preferences for maximum flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Elote Pasta Salad in an airtight container.
• It can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep cotija cheese and cilantro separate until ready to serve for optimal freshness.

Freezing Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• Freezing is not recommended as it can alter the texture of pasta and vegetables.
• If necessary, freeze individual portions in airtight containers.
• Consume frozen portions within 1 month for best quality.

Reheating Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the salad in a covered dish for about 10-15 minutes.

• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn for the Elote Pasta Salad Recipe?

Yes, frozen corn works well and saves time! Just thaw and heat it before adding it to your salad.

What can I substitute for cotija cheese?

You can use queso fresco, feta cheese, or even parmesan as alternatives if cotija isn’t available.

How do I customize my Elote Pasta Salad Recipe?

Feel free to add additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. You can also adjust spices according to your taste preference!

How long does this salad last?

The Elote Pasta Salad will last in the refrigerator for up to three days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta instead of regular pasta.

Final Thoughts

This Elote Pasta Salad combines all the beloved flavors of traditional Mexican street corn into a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows for customization with different veggies or cheese options. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite at your gatherings!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Elote Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings the bold flavors of traditional Mexican street corn right to your table. This delightful twist combines al dente pasta with roasted corn, creamy dressing, and zesty toppings like cotija cheese and fresh herbs. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or as a hearty side dish, this salad will impress your guests with its colorful presentation and delicious taste. Quick to prepare in just 30 minutes, it’s an excellent choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Elevate your dining experience with this easy yet flavorful recipe that everyone will love!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz dry pasta
• 4 cups whole corn kernels (or 16 oz frozen corn)
• ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese (or queso fresco/feta/parmesan)
• ½ red onion, diced
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 jalapeno pepper, chopped
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 Tbsp mayonnaise
• zest and juice of 1 lime
• ½ tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

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Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente; drain and cool.
2. Roast fresh corn at 425°F for 25-30 minutes or heat frozen corn in a skillet.
3. In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lime zest and juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, corn kernels, cilantro, onion, jalapeno, and cotija cheese.
5. Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 20mg