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 pasta, making it a perfect dish for potlucks, picnics, or a delightful weeknight dinner. The creamy dressing and fresh ingredients create a refreshing and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Its versatility allows you to serve it as a side or main dish, ensuring it fits into any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of roasted corn, cotija cheese, and spices provides a taste experience that is both unique and delicious.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps and minimal cooking time, this salad can be whipped up quickly for any gathering.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it hot or cold, as a side or main dish; it’s adaptable to suit your needs.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and protein from Greek yogurt, this salad is not only tasty but nutritious too.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time for lunches throughout the week; its flavors deepen as it sits in the fridge.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn), you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having these on hand simplifies the process and ensures you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Colander for draining pasta
• Baking sheet (if using fresh corn)
• Mixing bowl for salad assembly
• Whisk or spoon for mixing dressing

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ensures even cooking of pasta without overcrowding.
• Colander: Allows quick draining of pasta while keeping it intact.
• Baking sheet: Perfect for roasting corn to enhance its flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without mess.

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 the box calls for. When the pasta is done cooking:
* Drain the pasta in a colander.
* Toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
* Allow it to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

If using fresh ears of corn:
1. Cook them using your preferred method until tender.
2. Remove kernels from the cob.
3. For roasting: Coat with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Wrap in foil and roast at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes.

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, salt, and black pepper.
* Whisk everything together until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl:
1. Add cooled pasta.
2. Stir in roasted corn (or warmed frozen corn).
3. Add cilantro, red onion, cotija cheese, and jalapeno pepper.
4. Pour dressing over the mixture and toss gently until well combined.

Step 5: Serve

For best results when making ahead of time:
* Wait to add cotija cheese and cilantro right before serving for freshness!

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

This Elote Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick lunch, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

As a Main Dish

• Serve the salad chilled as a refreshing main course, perfect for hot summer days.

As a Side Dish

• Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a hearty meal. The flavors of the salad complement the smoky taste of grilled meats.

At Potlucks and Gatherings

• Bring this dish to potlucks. Its vibrant colors and unique flavor profile will impress guests and make it a standout on any table.

In Meal Prep Containers

• Portion out servings into meal prep containers for easy lunches throughout the week. This salad keeps well in the fridge and tastes great even after a few days.

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

Making this Elote Pasta Salad is easy, but there are ways to elevate it even further. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh corn, herbs, and spices will enhance the flavor profile of your salad.
• Adjust spice level: If you prefer less heat, omit the jalapeno or reduce its amount.
• Add texture: Include diced bell peppers or crunchy tortilla strips for added crunch.
• Make it ahead of time: Prepare the salad a few hours in advance to allow flavors to meld together.
• Experiment with cheese: While cotija is traditional, try feta or goat cheese for different flavor notes.
• Garnish creatively: Top with extra cilantro or lime wedges before serving for an appealing presentation.

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

This pasta salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes, making it suitable for any occasion. Here are some delicious ideas to complement your meal.

1. Grilled Veggies: Toss zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus on the grill for smoky flavors that balance the creamy pasta salad.
2. Chips and Salsa: Offer tortilla chips with fresh salsa as a crunchy side that adds zest to your meal.
3. Guacamole: A rich avocado dip provides creaminess and pairs beautifully with the flavors of Mexican street corn.
4. Coleslaw: A light, tangy coleslaw can add freshness and crunch alongside the rich pasta salad.
5. Black Bean Tacos: Simple black bean tacos offer protein and can be customized with toppings like avocado and cilantro.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn enhances the overall corn theme while adding an element of fun to your meal.
7. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides sweetness and balances out savory dishes perfectly.
8. Mexican Rice: Flavored rice mixed with spices complements the pasta’s creaminess while adding heartiness to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Elote Pasta Salad Recipe, avoid these common mistakes to ensure a delicious dish.

• Skipping the cooling step: Not allowing the pasta to cool after cooking can result in a soggy salad. Toss it with olive oil and let it cool completely before mixing in other ingredients.

• Using unseasoned corn: Fresh corn needs seasoning to bring out its flavor. Whether grilling or roasting, coat it with olive oil, salt, and pepper for the best taste.

• Overdressing the salad: Adding too much dressing can make the salad heavy and unappealing. Start with a small amount and add more gradually until you achieve the desired creaminess.

• Forgetting about ingredient freshness: Using wilted herbs or old vegetables will affect the flavor. Always opt for fresh cilantro and vibrant veggies for the best results.

• Ignoring dietary restrictions: Not considering guests’ dietary needs can lead to disappointment. Make adjustments like using gluten-free pasta or plant-based mayo to accommodate everyone.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Elote Pasta Salad in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture of the pasta and vegetables.
• If necessary, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.

Reheating Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the salad in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat while stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Elote Pasta Salad Recipe special?

This recipe captures the beloved flavors of Mexican street corn, combining roasted corn, creamy dressing, and fresh herbs that elevate traditional pasta salads.

Can I modify this Elote Pasta Salad Recipe?

Absolutely! You can swap out cotija cheese for feta or parmesan and choose different herbs based on your preferences.

How long does this Elote Pasta Salad last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, this salad will remain fresh for about 3-4 days, making it great for meal prep!

Is this Elote Pasta Salad Recipe suitable for vegans?

To make it vegan-friendly, use plant-based yogurt and mayonnaise alternatives while maintaining the same delicious flavors!

Final Thoughts

This Elote Pasta Salad Recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional pasta salads by incorporating vibrant Mexican street corn flavors. It’s versatile enough for potlucks, summer picnics, or quick dinners. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients! Enjoy making this refreshing dish that’s sure to impress everyone at your table.

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: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Elote Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the delicious taste of Mexican street corn to your dinner table. This unique salad combines tender pasta with roasted corn, creamy Greek yogurt dressing, and fresh herbs, offering a refreshing option for potlucks, picnics, or weeknight meals. With its delightful blend of textures and flavors, this dish is not only satisfying but also healthy, featuring nutritious ingredients like fresh vegetables and protein-rich Greek yogurt. Serve it chilled as a main course or warm as a side dish; it’s versatile enough to complement any meal. Plus, this Elote Pasta Salad is perfect for meal prep—its flavors deepen over time, making it an excellent choice for busy weekdays.

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Ingredients

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• 8 oz dry pasta
• 4 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese
• ½ red onion, diced
• ½ cup chopped cilantro
• 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 instructions until al dente; drain and cool.
2. If using fresh corn, roast or cook until tender; remove kernels.
3. In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt with mayo, lime juice/zest, and spices to make the dressing.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, corn, red onion, cilantro, jalapeno, and cheese.
5. Pour the dressing over and toss gently until well combined.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 41g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 11g
• Cholesterol: 15mg