Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

This Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) combines the vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn with tender pasta, making it a standout dish for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, attending a potluck, or simply looking for a refreshing side, this salad is sure to impress. With its creamy dressing and fresh ingredients, it’s not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Profile: The combination of roasted corn, cotija cheese, and zesty lime creates an irresistible flavor that everyone will love.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side or main dish; it pairs well with grilled meats or can stand alone as a vegetarian option.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare in advance for convenience. Just add the cilantro and cheese before serving to keep everything fresh.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks or parties, this salad is designed to feed a crowd with its generous servings.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable, gather these essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking pasta evenly. A sturdy pot ensures your pasta cooks properly without sticking together.
• Skillet: Perfect for roasting corn or heating frozen corn quickly. A good skillet provides even heat distribution for better flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining all ingredients seamlessly. A large bowl allows you to toss the salad without spilling.
• Whisk or spoon: Ideal for mixing your dressing thoroughly. Using these tools helps achieve a smooth consistency in your dressing.

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

• 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

Cook pasta according to the package directions. If you prefer al dente pasta, cook it 1-2 minutes less than indicated on the box. When done cooking:
1. Drain the pasta.
2. Toss it in a drizzle of olive oil.
3. Let it cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

If using fresh ears of corn:
1. Cook using your preferred method until tender.
2. Remove corn kernels from the cob.
– For roasting: Coat with olive oil, salt, and pepper; wrap in foil; roast at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes.
– Grilling adds great flavor!
If using frozen corn:
1. Heat in a skillet over medium-high heat until thawed and warmed (about 4-5 minutes).

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl:
1. 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

In a large bowl:
1. Add cooled pasta, roasted corn (or heated frozen corn), cilantro, diced red onion, cotija cheese, and chopped jalapeno.
2. Pour dressing on top.
3. Toss gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Step 5: Serve

If making ahead of time:
1. Wait to add cotija cheese and cilantro until right before serving to maintain freshness.

Enjoy your flavorful 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. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, this salad adds a burst of flavor and color to any meal.

As a Main Dish

• Perfect for lunch or dinner, this pasta salad can stand alone as a filling meal. Pair it with grilled chicken or turkey for added protein.

At Potlucks

• This salad is an excellent choice for potlucks due to its vibrant flavors and easy preparation. Serve it chilled for the best taste.

With Grilled Meat

• The smoky flavors complement grilled meats like chicken or beef beautifully. Serve alongside your favorite grilled dishes for a complete meal.

As a Cold Side Dish

• Ideal for summer barbecues, this salad serves as a refreshing side dish. It pairs well with lighter fare, such as sandwiches or wraps.

For Meal Prep

• Pack individual servings for the week ahead. This salad keeps well in the fridge and makes for quick lunches on busy days.

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

To elevate your Elote Pasta Salad, consider these helpful tips for perfecting the recipe every time you make it.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh corn if possible; it enhances the flavor significantly.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the jalapeno quantity based on your heat preference.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad chill helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
• Add Extra Herbs: Incorporate additional herbs like parsley or green onions for more freshness.
• Use Alternative Cheeses: If cotija isn’t available, try feta or parmesan for a different twist.
• Experiment with Dressings: Mix in some lime vinaigrette for extra zing without overpowering the dish.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Elote Pasta Salad can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken marinated in spices complements the flavors of the pasta salad perfectly.
2. Vegetable Quesadillas: Crispy quesadillas filled with cheese and veggies add a delightful crunch alongside your pasta salad.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice and beans provide a hearty addition that balances well with the salad.
4. Corn on the Cob: A classic side that echoes the corn theme while offering an extra layer of sweetness and texture.
5. Avocado Salsa: A fresh mix of avocado, tomatoes, and onions adds creaminess and acidity to enhance each bite of pasta salad.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the savory notes of both the corn and dressing in your salad.
7. Crispy Tortilla Chips: Serve with guacamole or salsa for an easy, crunchy side option that everyone loves.
8. Mixed Green Salad: A light green salad dressed with citrus vinaigrette brings balance and freshness to your meal ensemble.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making this Elote Pasta Salad Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common errors that can impact the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using undercooked pasta: Undercooked pasta can ruin the texture of your salad. Always cook it according to package directions, or 1-2 minutes less for al dente.
• Skipping the dressing mixing step: If you don’t mix the dressing well, it can lead to uneven flavor distribution. Take your time to whisk all ingredients together thoroughly.
• Not cooling pasta before mixing: Adding warm pasta directly to the salad can wilt fresh ingredients. Always let the pasta cool completely before combining.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Tasting the salad before serving is crucial. Adjust salt, lime juice, or spices based on your preference for the best flavor.
• Adding all ingredients at once when making in advance: For optimal freshness, add delicate ingredients like cilantro and cheese right before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep in the fridge to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• This salad is not recommended for freezing as it may lose texture and flavor upon thawing.

Reheating Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warmed through. Stir between intervals.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Elote Pasta Salad Recipe:

What is Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)?

Elote Pasta Salad combines traditional Mexican street corn flavors with delicious pasta, making a refreshing dish perfect for any occasion.

Can I make substitutions in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can swap cotija cheese with feta or parmesan and use different herbs based on your taste preferences.

How do I keep my pasta from getting mushy?

To prevent mushy pasta, avoid overcooking it. Follow package instructions closely, and consider rinsing with cold water after draining.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! The Elote Pasta Salad holds up well for meal prep. Just add fresh herbs and cheese before serving for optimal taste.

Final Thoughts

The Elote Pasta Salad Recipe brings vibrant flavors together in a delightful dish that’s perfect for gatherings or as a quick weeknight dinner. Its versatility allows you to customize with various cheeses or herbs based on your taste. Give this recipe a try; you might just find a new favorite!

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

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Description

Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) is a vibrant and refreshing dish that beautifully melds the flavors of traditional Mexican street corn with tender pasta. Perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or casual family dinners, this creamy salad is both delicious and versatile. With roasted corn, zesty lime, fresh herbs, and a rich dressing, it’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser. Not only is it easy to whip up in about 30 minutes, but it also holds well for meal prep, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Whether served as a side or main dish, this Elote Pasta Salad will impress with its irresistible flavor.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz dry pasta
• 4 cups whole corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta/parmesan)
• ½ red onion, diced
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 jalapeno pepper, chopped
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 Tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 lime, zest and juice
• 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 the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and let cool.
2. If using fresh corn, roast or grill until tender; if using frozen corn, heat in a skillet until warmed.
3. In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt, olive oil mayonnaise, lime zest and juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta with corn, cilantro, red onion, cotija cheese, and jalapeno. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate and add cilantro and cheese just before serving for freshness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook/Boiling
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 490mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 10mg