Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

This Elote Pasta Salad Recipe brings the vibrant flavors of traditional Mexican street corn to your table in a delightful salad form. Perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or a quick dinner, this dish combines roasted corn, tender pasta, and creamy dressing for a taste that is both satisfying and refreshing. With its unique blend of ingredients and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of roasted corn, cotija cheese, and fresh herbs creates an irresistible taste that will impress your guests.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side or a main course; this pasta salad adapts well to any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its unique twist on classic flavors, everyone from kids to adults will enjoy this dish.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to substitute ingredients based on availability or preference, making it easy to tailor the recipe to your liking.

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Tools and Preparation

To make the Elote Pasta Salad Recipe successfully, having the right tools can streamline your process and enhance your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Baking sheet (if using fresh corn)
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking pasta efficiently and ensuring even cooking.
• Colander: Helps drain pasta quickly while preventing overcooking.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining all ingredients without making a mess.

Ingredients

This Elote Pasta Salad has all the flavors of traditional Mexican street corn with roasted corn, tender pasta, cotija cheese, fresh herbs, and a creamy dressing. It might just be your new favorite pasta salad recipe!

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

• olive oil mayonnaise
• 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

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

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

1. If using fresh ears of corn:
2. Cook them using your preferred method (grilling or roasting works best).
3. Remove kernels from the cob once cooked.

4. If roasting, coat with olive oil, salt, and pepper; wrap in foil; roast in oven at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes.

5. If using frozen corn:

6. Heat in a skillet over medium-high heat until thawed and warmed (about 4–5 minutes).

Step 3: Make the Dressing

1. 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.
2. Mix well using a whisk or spoon until fully combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta with corn kernels, cilantro, diced red onion, crumbled cotija cheese, and chopped jalapeno.
2. Pour dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

1. Hint: If preparing in advance, add cotija cheese and cilantro just before serving for maximum freshness.

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

Elote Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Its vibrant flavors and colorful presentation make it a perfect addition to any meal or gathering. Here are some great serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Main Dish

• This pasta salad can stand alone as a satisfying main course, especially on warm days. The combination of pasta, corn, and creamy dressing offers both heartiness and freshness.

At a Potluck

• Bring this Elote Pasta Salad to your next potluck! It’s easy to transport, and its unique taste will surely impress fellow guests. Just remember to add the cilantro and cheese before serving!

With Grilled Proteins

• Pair this salad with grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak. The smoky flavors from the grill complement the creamy and zesty notes of the pasta salad beautifully.

In a Burrito Bowl

• Use this pasta salad as a base for a delicious burrito bowl. Top it with black beans, avocado, salsa, and your choice of protein for a filling meal.

As a Side Dish

• Serve it alongside tacos or quesadillas for an authentic Mexican-inspired feast. The salad’s refreshing taste balances out rich flavors from other dishes.

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

To make your Elote Pasta Salad even better, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure every bite is packed with flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn enhances the taste significantly compared to frozen. If possible, opt for in-season corn for the best flavor.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to add more or less jalapeño depending on your spice preference. You can also substitute with bell pepper for a milder version.
• Experiment with Cheese: While cotija cheese is traditional, you can try other cheeses like feta or parmesan for different flavors.
• Add More Veggies: Incorporate diced bell peppers or tomatoes for added crunch and nutrition.
• Make it Vegan: Substitute Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with plant-based alternatives to create a vegan version of this dish.

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

Pairing side dishes with Elote Pasta Salad can elevate your meal further. Here are some excellent options that complement its flavors well.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection offer a protein-packed addition that goes well with this pasta salad.
2. Black Bean Tacos: Simple black bean tacos filled with fresh toppings create an excellent balance between the creamy salad and savory tacos.
3. Cornbread Muffins: These sweet muffins provide a delightful contrast in texture and flavor, making them great companions for any Mexican-inspired meal.
4. Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: A classic pairing, guacamole adds creaminess while tortilla chips introduce crunch—perfect for dipping!
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies bring depth to the table and are easy to prepare alongside your pasta salad.
6. Fruit Salsa: A refreshing fruit salsa made from mango or pineapple adds sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the main dish.
7. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with lime juice and cilantro makes for an excellent base alongside the pasta salad.
8. Stuffed Bell Peppers: These colorful pepper halves filled with rice or quinoa add color and nutrition to your plate while pairing nicely with the spicy notes of the salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Elote Pasta Salad, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure you create a vibrant and delicious dish.

• Skipping the cooling step: Not allowing the pasta to cool before mixing can lead to overcooked pasta. Toss it in olive oil and let it cool for best results.
• Using canned corn: While convenient, canned corn lacks flavor. Opt for fresh or frozen corn for a more authentic taste that enhances your salad.
• Overdressing the salad: Adding too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with a small amount and add more as needed to achieve the perfect balance.
• Ignoring seasoning: Failing to properly season your ingredients can dull flavors. Don’t forget salt and spices; they elevate the overall taste of your salad.
• Forgetting the cheese: Cotija cheese adds a creamy and salty kick. Always include it or choose another cheese option to enhance flavor and texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep any leftover dressing separate if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• It is not recommended to freeze this salad due to the dairy in the dressing.
• If necessary, freeze without dressing for up to 1 month; add fresh dressing when thawed.

Reheating Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between, until warm throughout. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes on medium power.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) that may help clarify any doubts.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad stores well in the fridge for several days, making it perfect for meal prep.

What can I substitute for cotija cheese?

If you can’t find cotija cheese, queso fresco or feta work well as substitutes while still offering a delicious flavor.

How spicy is this Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)?

The spiciness largely depends on the jalapeno pepper. You can remove seeds and pulp or omit it entirely for a milder version.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes! Substitute Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with plant-based alternatives. Use vegan cheese if desired.

Final Thoughts

This Elote Pasta Salad combines all the beloved flavors of traditional Mexican street corn into a refreshing dish. It’s perfect as a side or main course and allows plenty of room for customization—add avocado, bell peppers, or even grilled chicken! Try this recipe today and experience its delightful taste.