Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

This Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) is a delightful twist on the classic flavors of Mexican street corn. With roasted corn, creamy dressing, and vibrant herbs, this pasta salad is perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a refreshing side dish at dinner. It combines comfort with a burst of flavor that everyone will love. Easy to prepare, it might just become your go-to pasta salad for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of roasted corn, cotija cheese, and spices creates a delicious and vibrant taste.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main or side dish. Perfect for potlucks or barbecues!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with whole ingredients like corn and Greek yogurt, it’s a nutritious choice.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its unique flavors appeal to both kids and adults alike!

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Tools and Preparation

To make this Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn), gather the necessary tools and prepare your ingredients. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or spoon
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the pasta evenly.
• Colander: Helps drain the pasta efficiently while keeping it intact.
• Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining all salad ingredients effortlessly.
• Whisk or spoon: Useful for mixing the dressing thoroughly.

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)

Follow these steps to create your tasty Elote Pasta Salad.

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 recommended.
2. Once cooked, drain the pasta and toss it in a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Let it cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

1. If using fresh ears of corn, choose your preferred cooking method to heat them up and then remove kernels from the cob.
2. A great option is to coat them with olive oil, salt, and pepper; wrap in foil; and roast at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes.
3. Grilling adds extra flavor if you prefer that method!
4. For frozen corn, heat in a skillet on medium-high until thawed and warmed through—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 thoroughly with a whisk or spoon until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, add cooled pasta along with roasted corn kernels.
2. Include chopped cilantro, diced red onion, crumbled cotija cheese, and chopped jalapeno.
3. Pour the prepared dressing over everything and toss gently to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Serve

1. If preparing in advance, wait to add cotija cheese and cilantro until right before serving for freshness!

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

Elote Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or preparing a simple lunch, this salad pairs well with various accompaniments.

As a Main Dish

• This salad can stand alone as a hearty main dish. The combination of pasta, corn, and beans provides a filling meal option.

As a Side Dish

• Serve this Elote Pasta Salad alongside grilled meats or fish for an excellent complement to the smoky flavors.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a fresh twist, use lettuce leaves to wrap the salad. This makes for an exciting finger food option at parties.

With Tortilla Chips

• Pair this salad with crispy tortilla chips for added crunch and texture. It’s perfect for casual gatherings.

As Part of a Picnic Spread

• This pasta salad is easy to transport, making it an ideal choice for picnics. Serve it chilled alongside other picnic favorites.

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

To ensure your Elote Pasta Salad is always a hit, consider these tips for perfection.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and herbs enhance the flavor profile of your salad significantly.
• Adjust Spiciness: If you prefer less heat, omit the jalapeno or use less chili powder in the dressing.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavors.
• Experiment with Cheeses: While cotija cheese is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like feta or parmesan for different tastes.
• Add Protein: To make it more filling, consider adding grilled chicken or black beans for extra protein.
• Garnish Creatively: Top with extra cilantro or lime wedges for a beautiful presentation.

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

Elote Pasta Salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Seasoned and cooked on skewers, these add protein and a smoky flavor.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender balances the richness of the salad.
3. Black Bean Tacos: Quick and easy, these tacos pair well with the creamy pasta salad for a Mexican-inspired meal.
4. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins create a delightful contrast to the savory pasta dish.
5. Guacamole and Chips: Creamy guacamole served with crunchy tortilla chips makes for an irresistible side.
6. Fruit Salsa: A refreshing fruit salsa adds brightness and sweetness to your meal while enhancing flavor variety.
7. Cilantro Lime Rice: This zesty rice dish complements the salad’s flavors perfectly while adding heartiness.
8. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice provide additional nutrients and flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making an Elote Pasta Salad can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using overcooked pasta – Cooking the pasta too long can lead to a mushy salad. Aim for al dente by cooking it 1-2 minutes less than the package suggests.
• Neglecting fresh ingredients – Relying solely on frozen corn or pre-packaged herbs can dull the flavor. Fresh ingredients elevate this dish, so use them whenever possible.
• Skipping the dressing mix – Not properly combining the dressing can result in uneven flavor. Whisk together all dressing ingredients until smooth before adding to the salad.
• Adding cheese too early – Incorporating cotija cheese too soon can make it soggy. Add it right before serving to keep it fresh and crumbly.
• Forgetting to chill – Serving the salad immediately may miss out on flavors melding together. Letting it chill for at least 30 minutes enhances its taste.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3 days.

Freezing Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• Freezing is not recommended as it affects texture.
• If you must freeze, omit fresh herbs and cheese before freezing.

Reheating Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between, until warmed through.
• Stovetop – Heat gently over low heat in a skillet, stirring often to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn).

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! If cotija isn’t available, you can substitute with queso fresco, feta, or parmesan.

How do I make this salad spicier?

You can add more jalapeños or include diced serrano peppers for an extra kick.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! Just wait to add the cheese and herbs until right before serving for optimal freshness.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta varieties available at most grocery stores.

What other variations can I try?

Feel free to customize with additional veggies like bell peppers or avocado for extra flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

This Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) is a delightful blend of flavors that pays homage to traditional Mexican street corn. It’s versatile enough for potlucks or casual dinners. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or proteins. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress!