This Elote Pasta Salad Recipe combines the delightful flavors of Mexican street corn with tender pasta, creating a dish that’s perfect for any gathering. It’s creamy, zesty, and loaded with fresh ingredients, making it not only a flavorful option but also a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, potluck, or simply enjoying dinner at home, this salad will shine on your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Fusion: Experience the rich taste of traditional Mexican street corn in a refreshing pasta salad.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal cooking time, this recipe is quick enough for weeknight meals.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side or main dish; it pairs well with grilled meats and veggies.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance for stress-free entertaining; just add fresh toppings before serving.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fiber and protein, this salad is as healthy as it is delicious.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Elote Pasta Salad, you’ll need a few essential tools that will streamline your preparation process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta efficiently while ensuring even cooking.
• Colander: Helps drain excess water from the pasta quickly, preventing it from becoming mushy.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining all ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending the dressing smoothly to achieve a creamy consistency.

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 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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

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 it in a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Let it cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

If using fresh ears of corn:
– Cook using your preferred method until tender.
– Remove kernels from the cob.
– Optionally coat them with olive oil, salt and pepper before roasting in foil at 425°F (220°C) for about 25-30 minutes.

If using frozen corn:
– Heat in a skillet on medium-high heat until thawed and warmed through; this should take about 4-5 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

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

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl:
– Add cooled pasta along with roasted or cooked corn kernels.
– Stir in cilantro, red onion, cotija cheese, and jalapeno.
– Pour dressing over everything and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.

Step 5: Serve Fresh

If preparing in advance:
– Wait to add cotija cheese and cilantro until just before serving for maximum freshness. Enjoy your delicious Elote Pasta Salad!

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

Elote Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to suit different occasions. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, attending a potluck, or simply enjoying a family dinner, this salad is sure to impress.

As a Main Dish

• This salad can be enjoyed as a light main course. Pair it with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.

As a Side Dish

• Elote Pasta Salad makes a fantastic side for any meal. It complements grilled meats beautifully, adding a refreshing element.

In Wraps or Tacos

• Scoop the pasta salad into tortillas for an easy and delicious wrap. This is perfect for lunch on-the-go or casual dinners.

With Extra Toppings

• Enhance the flavors by adding extra toppings like avocado slices or additional cotija cheese right before serving.

Chilled for Summer Picnics

• Serve this pasta salad cold at summer picnics. It’s refreshing and perfect for warm days, making it a go-to choice for outdoor events.

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

To elevate your Elote Pasta Salad, consider these helpful tips that will enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and herbs make a big difference. Choose vibrant ingredients for the best taste.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer less heat, omit the jalapeno or reduce its amount. Customize it to suit your palate.
• Chill Before Serving: Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Add Protein: For a heartier meal, incorporate cooked chicken or beans into the salad. This will also make it more filling.
• Experiment with Dressings: While the creamy dressing is delicious, feel free to experiment with lime vinaigrette for a lighter option.
• Garnish Before Serving: Add fresh cilantro and extra cheese just before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Elote Pasta Salad can create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers seasoned with spices complement the fresh flavors of the pasta salad.
2. Black Bean Tacos: Simple black bean tacos add protein and are easy to prepare alongside the pasta salad.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition to your meal.
4. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast with their texture and flavor.
5. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole pairs perfectly and adds richness to the overall dining experience.
6. Fruit Salsa: A refreshing fruit salsa offers sweetness that balances out savory dishes beautifully.
7. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with zesty salsa make for an easy appetizer while you enjoy your main dish.
8. Cilantro Lime Rice: Lightly flavored rice enhances the Mexican theme while providing another tasty component to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Elote Pasta Salad Recipe turn out perfectly. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Overcooking pasta: Cooking pasta for too long can make it mushy. Follow the package instructions closely, and consider cooking it 1-2 minutes less for an al dente texture.

• Skipping fresh ingredients: Using stale or old vegetables can affect the salad’s flavor. Always go for fresh corn, cilantro, and onions for the best results.

• Not cooling pasta properly: Adding warm pasta to the salad can wilt fresh ingredients. Make sure to cool the pasta completely before combining it with other components.

• Ignoring seasoning: Under-seasoning can result in bland flavors. Be generous with spices and taste as you go to ensure a well-balanced dressing.

• Adding cheese too early: If you’re making this dish ahead of time, wait to add cotija cheese until just before serving to maintain its texture and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store your Elote Pasta Salad Recipe in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Container: Use an airtight container to keep the salad fresh.
• Separation: Consider keeping dressing separate until ready to serve for better texture.

Freezing Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• Duration: This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Container: Use a freezer-safe container or a resealable bag.
• Thawing: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying again.

Reheating Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Elote Pasta Salad Recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time! Just wait to add fresh ingredients like cotija cheese and cilantro until right before serving.

What can I substitute for cotija cheese?

If cotija cheese is unavailable, you can use queso fresco, feta, or even parmesan cheese as tasty alternatives.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version of this Elote Pasta Salad Recipe, simply use gluten-free pasta instead of regular pasta.

What dishes pair well with Elote Pasta Salad?

This salad pairs nicely with grilled meats, tacos, or as part of a larger potluck spread. Its vibrant flavors complement many dishes!

Final Thoughts

This Elote Pasta Salad Recipe combines the delightful flavors of Mexican street corn with tender pasta for a unique take on traditional salads. It’s not only versatile—allowing customization with various herbs and spices—but also perfect for potlucks or quick meals. Give it a try and enjoy all the delicious possibilities!

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Elote Pasta Salad

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• Author: Madison
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Elote Pasta Salad is a vibrant twist on the classic Mexican street corn dish, perfectly blending tender pasta with roasted corn, creamy dressing, and zesty flavors. This refreshing salad is ideal for summer picnics, potlucks, or casual dinners at home. With its colorful ingredients and delightful texture, Elote Pasta Salad will be the star of your table. Easy to prepare and highly customizable, it’s a crowd-pleaser that satisfies both adults and kids alike. Serve it as a light main course or as a tantalizing side dish alongside grilled meats or tacos. Enjoy the taste of Mexico with every bite!

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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 alternative cheese)
• ½ red onion, diced
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 jalapeño pepper, chopped (optional)
• Dressing: Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice & zest, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt & pepper

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Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and cool with a drizzle of olive oil.
2. Roast fresh corn or heat frozen corn in a skillet until warmed through.
3. In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice & zest, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt & pepper to create the dressing.
4. Combine cooled pasta, corn kernels, cilantro, red onion, cotija cheese, and jalapeño in a large mixing bowl. Pour dressing over and toss gently.
5. Chill before serving for enhanced flavors; add fresh toppings just before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 420mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: For added protein: consider mixing in cooked chicken or black beans. Adjust spice levels by modifying or omitting the jalapeño based on preference. Feel free to substitute cotija cheese with feta or parmesan if needed.