Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

If you’re looking for a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of summer into your kitchen, this Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) is just what you need! It’s a delightful twist on the classic Mexican street corn, combining tender pasta with roasted corn, fresh herbs, and a creamy dressing that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight dinner or bringing it to a family gathering, this salad is sure to steal the show.

What makes this recipe special is its blend of textures and flavors. The sweet crunch of corn meets the creamy richness of cotija cheese, all tied together with a zesty lime dressing. It’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of roasted corn and fresh herbs makes each bite a celebration of taste!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy dressing and sweet corn.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week—just add fresh herbs right before serving!
• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have this delightful salad ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Elote Pasta Salad features simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

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

Variations

The beauty of this Elote Pasta Salad is its flexibility! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Protein: Toss in some grilled chicken or chickpeas for an extra boost of protein.
• Spice it Up: If you love heat, add more jalapeno or sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes.
• Switch Up the Cheese: Try using feta or parmesan for a different flavor profile.
• Seasonal Veggies: Feel free to incorporate seasonal veggies like bell peppers or zucchini to enhance the salad.

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

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking your pasta according to package directions. If you prefer al dente pasta—which adds a nice bite—cook it just 1-2 minutes less than instructed. Once it’s done cooking, drain it well and toss it with a drizzle of olive oil. This step helps prevent sticking as your pasta cools down.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

If you’re using fresh ears of corn, cook them until tender and then remove the kernels from the cob. I love to coat mine with olive oil, salt, and pepper before wrapping them in foil and roasting at 425°F (220°C) for about 25-30 minutes for extra flavor. If frozen corn is your go-to choice, simply heat it in a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s warmed through—this usually takes about 4-5 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, mix up your Elote dressing! Combine Greek yogurt with olive oil mayonnaise, lime zest, lime juice, and your spices. Whisk everything together until smooth. This creamy dressing is what ties all those wonderful flavors together!

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine your cooled pasta with roasted corn, cilantro, diced red onion, cotija cheese, and jalapeno. Pour that delicious dressing over everything and gently toss to combine all those tasty ingredients.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

If you’re preparing this salad in advance—great idea! Just remember to wait until right before serving to add the cotija cheese and cilantro for that fresh burst of flavor.

And there you have it—your very own Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)! Enjoy every bite; I know you’ll fall in love with its vibrant flavors!

Pro Tips for Making Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

Making this Elote Pasta Salad is a breeze, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate your dish to perfection!

• Use fresh corn when possible: Fresh corn adds a delightful crunch and sweetness that frozen alternatives may lack. If it’s in season, take advantage of those juicy ears!
• Don’t skip the lime zest: The zest packs a punch of citrus flavor that brightens up the dressing. It’s an easy step that makes a big difference in taste.
• Customize your spice level: Adjust the amount of jalapeno based on your heat preference. Feel free to add more or omit it entirely for a milder version.
• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavors and gives it a refreshing taste when served.
• Experiment with herbs: While cilantro is traditional, fresh parsley or even basil can add unique flavor profiles. Don’t hesitate to try different herbs to find your favorite combination!

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

This vibrant Elote Pasta Salad is not just tasty but a feast for the eyes! Presenting it beautifully can make all the difference during gatherings or family dinners.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: Sprinkling additional chopped cilantro right before serving provides a pop of color and freshness.
• Lime wedges: Serving lime wedges on the side allows guests to squeeze extra lime juice for an added zing.
• Chili powder sprinkle: A light dusting of chili powder on top can enhance both flavor and presentation, making it look appealing.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Veggies: A mix of seasonal grilled vegetables complements the salad’s flavors beautifully while adding another layer of texture.
• Tortilla Chips with Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips paired with zesty salsa offer a fun crunch alongside the creamy pasta salad.
• Black Bean Tacos: These hearty tacos filled with black beans, avocado, and fresh veggies create a satisfying meal when served alongside this pasta dish.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices drizzled with lime juice not only provide healthy fats but also enhance the overall meal experience with their rich texture.

This Elote Pasta Salad is sure to be a hit at any gathering—enjoy making it and sharing it with friends and family!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Elote Pasta Salad is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge, making your weeknight dinners or lunch packing a breeze. Here’s how to ensure your salad stays fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy the salad within 3-4 days for the best flavor and quality.
• If you want to keep the salad fresh longer, consider storing the dressing separately.

Freezing

• Freezing this salad is not recommended due to the texture changes in pasta and fresh ingredients.
• If you must freeze, consider freezing just the pasta and corn mixture without dressing and add fresh ingredients after thawing.

Reheating

• This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
• If you prefer it warm, heat just the pasta and corn mixture gently on the stove or in the microwave before adding fresh ingredients again.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delightful dish, here are some common inquiries!

Can I make this Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) vegan?

Absolutely! You can replace cotija cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative and use vegan mayonnaise. The Greek yogurt can be substituted with plant-based yogurt to keep it entirely vegan.

How long does the Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) last in the fridge?

Generally, this salad lasts about 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container. To maintain freshness, consider adding herbs and cheese right before serving if you’re making it ahead of time.

Can I add other vegetables to this Elote Pasta Salad?

Yes! Feel free to incorporate additional vegetables like bell peppers, diced tomatoes, or even avocado for added flavor and nutrients. Just remember to adjust your dressing quantity as needed!

What can I substitute for cotija cheese?

If you can’t find cotija cheese, queso fresco, feta cheese, or even Parmesan work well as alternatives. Each option brings a unique flavor that complements the dish beautifully.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes! Simply swap out regular pasta for gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free while still enjoying its amazing flavors!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Elote Pasta Salad! With its vibrant flavors reminiscent of traditional Mexican street corn, it’s sure to become a favorite at your table. Whether you’re prepping for a picnic or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe has got you covered. Enjoy every bite, and feel free to get creative with your own twists! Happy cooking!