Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

This Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) combines the beloved flavors of traditional Mexican street corn with the comfort of pasta. Perfect for potlucks, summer BBQs, or a quick weeknight dinner, this salad is bursting with vibrant ingredients like roasted corn, creamy dressing, and fresh herbs. It’s easy to make and will surely impress your family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Fusion: Enjoy the delicious combination of Mexican street corn flavors in a pasta salad.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side dish or a main meal; it suits any occasion.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fiber and protein from corn and yogurt, it’s both healthy and satisfying.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients based on your preferences, such as using different cheeses or adding extra veggies.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful Elote Pasta Salad, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Baking sheet (if roasting corn)
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Necessary for boiling the pasta until perfectly cooked.
• Colander: Helps drain the pasta effectively after cooking.
• Whisk or spoon: Essential for mixing the creamy 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)

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 recommended. When done cooking:
1. Drain the pasta.
2. Toss it in a drizzle of olive oil.
3. Let it cool completely.

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.

For roasted corn:
1. Coat with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Wrap in foil and roast at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes.

If using frozen corn:
1. Heat in a skillet on medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes until warmed through.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

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

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

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

Step 5: Serve

If making in advance:
– Wait to add cotija cheese and cilantro right before serving for optimal freshness!

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

Elote Pasta Salad is not only a delightful dish on its own but also pairs well with various meals and occasions. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Main Dish

• This pasta salad can stand alone as a refreshing main course, especially during warm months or for casual gatherings.

With Grilled Proteins

• Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp for a hearty meal that balances the creamy pasta flavors with smoky protein.

At Potlucks

• Perfect for potlucks or barbecues, this dish brings a unique twist to traditional salads and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

As a Side for Tacos

• Pair it with your favorite tacos—beef, chicken, or vegetarian—to create a fun and festive Mexican-inspired feast.

With Fresh Salsa

• A side of fresh salsa complements the creamy texture of the salad and adds an extra burst of flavor.

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

To make your Elote Pasta Salad truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and presentation.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh corn and herbs elevate the salad’s taste. Opt for seasonal produce whenever possible.
• Adjust spice levels: If you enjoy heat, leave some jalapeno seeds in or add more chili powder for an extra kick.
• Chill before serving: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This lets the flavors meld beautifully.
• Customize cheese options: Feel free to swap cotija cheese with feta or parmesan if you prefer different flavors.
• Add more veggies: Boost nutrition by incorporating diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes into the mix.
• Double the dressing: If you like it extra creamy, consider making more dressing to drizzle over just before serving.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Elote Pasta Salad can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Grilled Vegetables
   A colorful medley of zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus brushed with olive oil and grilled until tender.

2. Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
   A classic side that echoes the flavors of your pasta salad; corn on the cob slathered in mayo, cheese, and chili powder.

3. Avocado Salad
   Creamy avocados mixed with lime juice and chopped onions provide a refreshing contrast to the pasta salad’s richness.

4. Chips and Guacamole
   Crunchy tortilla chips served with homemade guacamole make for a delightful appetizer or snack.

5. Black Bean Salad
   A zesty blend of black beans, corn, bell peppers, and lime juice adds protein and fiber while keeping things light.

6. Fruit Salsa
   A sweet salsa made from diced strawberries, mangoes, and jalapenos offers a vibrant flavor profile that pairs well with savory dishes.

7. Baked Sweet Potato Fries
   Crispy sweet potato fries seasoned with cumin and paprika complement the creamy pasta perfectly while adding crunch.

8. Cilantro Lime Rice
   Lightly seasoned rice flavored with cilantro and lime rounds out your meal while keeping it fresh and zesty.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) is straightforward, but common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using Overcooked Pasta: Cooking pasta too long can lead to a mushy texture. Aim for al dente by reducing cooking time by 1-2 minutes.
• Skipping the Dressing: Not adding enough dressing can make the salad dry. Ensure you mix thoroughly for even flavor distribution.
• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or old ingredients can compromise taste. Always opt for fresh herbs and vegetables for the best flavor.
• Not Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer less heat, skip the jalapeno or reduce chili powder. Customize spices to suit your palate.
• Making Ahead Without Proper Storage: If preparing in advance, wait to add cotija cheese and cilantro until serving to keep them fresh.

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 may alter texture; not recommended for best quality.
• If necessary, freeze in a sealed container for up to 1 month.

Reheating Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake in a covered dish until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn):

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen corn works perfectly. Just thaw and warm it before mixing into the salad.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make it vegan, substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and use vegan mayonnaise.

What type of pasta is best for this salad?

Any pasta shape works well! However, small shapes like elbows or shells hold dressing better.

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

The spice level depends on how much jalapeno and chili powder you use. Feel free to adjust according to your taste preference.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! Just remember to add fresh ingredients like cotija cheese and cilantro right before serving for optimal freshness.

Final Thoughts

This Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) brings vibrant flavors and textures that everyone will love. It’s perfect for potlucks or as a delightful side dish at dinner. Feel free to customize it by adding other vegetables or proteins like grilled chicken or black beans. Enjoy making this delicious salad as part of your meal rotation!