Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

This Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) brings the vibrant flavors of traditional Mexican street corn straight to your table. It’s perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or even as a refreshing side dish for family dinners. With its creamy dressing, crunchy corn, and zesty lime, this salad offers a unique twist on classic pasta salads. You’ll love how easy it is to make and how it captures the essence of street food in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of roasted corn, cotija cheese, and spices creates a delightful taste experience.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this salad is perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side at barbecues or enjoy it as a light main course. It suits any occasion!
• Colorful Presentation: The bright colors from the fresh ingredients make this salad visually appealing on any table.
• Healthier Option: Packed with veggies and made with Greek yogurt, it’s a nutritious choice that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Elote Pasta Salad, you’ll need a few essential tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Necessary for boiling pasta to the right texture without overcrowding.
• Colander: Ensures the pasta drains properly after cooking for the best salad consistency.
• Baking sheet: Ideal for roasting corn evenly in the oven or on the grill.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all your ingredients without spilling.

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 instructed.
2. When done cooking, drain and toss with a drizzle of olive oil. Let it cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

1. If using fresh ears of corn, cook them using your preferred method and remove kernels from the cob.
2. A great method is coating them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before wrapping in foil and roasting at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes.
3. For frozen corn, heat it in a skillet on medium-high 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 smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, add cooled pasta along with roasted corn, cilantro, red onion, cotija cheese, and jalapeno.
2. Pour dressing over ingredients and toss gently to combine.

Step 5: Serve

• Hint: If making in advance, wait to add cotija cheese and cilantro until right before serving for freshness.

With these steps complete, your Elote Pasta Salad is ready to impress! Enjoy this delicious dish at your next gathering or meal!

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

This Elote Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

As a Standalone Dish

• Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing option.

With Grilled Proteins

• Pair with grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak to add a satisfying protein element.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Serve the salad in large lettuce leaves for a fun and low-carb alternative.

As a Picnic Favorite

• Perfect for picnics, this salad holds up well and travels nicely.

As a Potluck Contribution

• Bring it to gatherings; it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser among friends and family.

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

To ensure your Elote Pasta Salad is as delicious as possible, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh corn and herbs will enhance the flavor significantly.
• Adjust spice levels – Feel free to increase or decrease jalapeno based on your heat preference.
• Chill before serving – Allowing the salad to chill enhances the flavors as they meld together.
• Mix in additional toppings – Experiment with avocado or diced bell peppers for extra texture.
• Prepare dressing ahead of time – Make the dressing in advance for quick assembly when ready to serve.
• Store properly – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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

Elote Pasta Salad makes a fantastic centerpiece, but it pairs beautifully with several side dishes. Here are some great options.

1. Grilled Vegetables – A mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus adds color and flavor.
2. Black Bean Tacos – Simple tacos filled with seasoned black beans complement the salad’s taste.
3. Cilantro Lime Rice – This fragrant rice dish balances well with the pasta salad’s creaminess.
4. Mexican Street Corn on the Cob – Reinforce those elote flavors by serving classic street corn alongside.
5. Guacamole and Chips – A classic combo that adds crunch and creaminess to your meal.
6. Fruit Salsa – A refreshing fruit salsa can brighten up the plate, providing sweetness against savory notes.
7. Cornbread Muffins – Soft muffins bring a comforting touch that pairs well with any summer dish.
8. Chili Lime Roasted Potatoes – These roasted potatoes add spice and heartiness to your table setting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Elote Pasta Salad, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious.

• Skipping the cooling step: Not allowing the pasta to cool before mixing can lead to a soggy salad. Always toss it in olive oil and let it cool down.
• Overcooking the corn: Cooking corn for too long can make it tough. Whether using fresh or frozen corn, just heat until warmed through for the best taste.
• Ignoring seasoning: Failing to season the dressing properly can result in bland flavors. Taste as you go and adjust spices to suit your preference.
• Forgetting fresh ingredients: Neglecting fresh herbs like cilantro can diminish freshness. Always add them just before serving for maximum flavor.
• Mixing too early: Combining all ingredients too far in advance can lead to a mushy salad. Assemble just before serving for optimal texture.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Elote Pasta Salad will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as it may alter the texture of the pasta and vegetables.
• If necessary, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month, but be aware of possible changes.

Reheating Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat while stirring gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) that might help you while preparing it.

Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

Yes! While cotija cheese is traditional, you can substitute with queso fresco, feta, or even parmesan cheese based on your preference.

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

The spice level depends on how much jalapeno you include. For a milder salad, simply reduce or omit the jalapeno.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead but add cilantro and cheese right before serving for freshness.

What should I serve with Elote Pasta Salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled meats, tacos, or as part of a picnic spread. It’s versatile enough for any occasion!

Final Thoughts

The Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) is a delightful blend of flavors that captures the essence of Mexican street food. It’s perfect for gatherings and can easily be customized with additional vegetables or proteins. Give it a try; you might find it becomes your new go-to dish!