Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) combines the delightful flavors of traditional Mexican street corn with tender pasta, making it a perfect dish for gatherings or family dinners. With its creamy dressing and fresh ingredients, this pasta salad is not only vibrant but also incredibly satisfying. You can serve it as a side at barbecues, picnics, or potlucks, and it even makes a great main dish for a light lunch!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold flavors: Experience the zest of lime and the warmth of spices that elevate every bite.
• Quick preparation: With a total time of just 30 minutes, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
• Versatile dish: Perfect as a side or a main course, this salad fits any occasion from casual lunches to festive gatherings.
• Nutritious ingredients: Packed with fresh corn and Greek yogurt, this recipe is both tasty and wholesome.
• Make-ahead option: Easily prepare it in advance; just add the cheese and herbs before serving for the freshest flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to make your Elote Pasta Salad.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta efficiently while ensuring even cooking.
• Colander: Perfect for draining pasta quickly without losing any precious noodles.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine all ingredients thoroughly without mess.
• Whisk or spoon: Ideal for mixing your creamy dressing smoothly without lumps.

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!

• 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
• 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

1. Cook pasta according to package directions.
2. For al dente pasta, cook it 1-2 minutes less than directed.
3. Drain when done cooking and toss in a drizzle of olive oil. Let it cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

1. If using fresh corn, cook using your preferred method until tender.
2. Remove kernels from the cob after cooking.
3. For roasting: Coat with olive oil, salt, and pepper; wrap in foil; roast at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes.
4. If using frozen corn, heat in a skillet on medium-high until 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 well with a whisk or spoon until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, add cooled pasta, cooked corn kernels, chopped cilantro, diced red onion, crumbled cotija cheese, and jalapeno.
2. Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Serve or Store

1. If making ahead of time, wait to add cotija cheese and cilantro until just before serving for maximum freshness.

Enjoy your vibrant Elote Pasta Salad! It’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!

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

This Elote Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will impress your guests and elevate this flavorful salad.

As a Main Dish

• This pasta salad works wonderfully as a light main dish, especially during warm months. Pair it with grilled chicken or turkey for added protein.

At Barbecues

• Serve this salad as a refreshing side at your next barbecue. Its vibrant flavors complement grilled meats beautifully, making it a crowd favorite.

For Meal Prep

• Prepare this salad ahead of time for easy lunches throughout the week. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for quick access to a delicious meal.

As a Picnic Item

• Pack this pasta salad for your next picnic. It’s easy to transport and can be enjoyed cold, making it perfect for outdoor gatherings.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• For cheese lovers, sprinkle additional cotija or feta cheese on top before serving. This adds a creamy texture and enhances the overall flavor.

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

To achieve the best version of this Elote Pasta Salad, consider these helpful tips that will enhance its taste and presentation.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh corn when available as it adds sweetness and crunch compared to frozen corn.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer less heat, consider removing all jalapeno seeds or using milder peppers.
• Customize Herbs: Feel free to substitute cilantro with fresh parsley if you’re looking for a different herbal note in your salad.
• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the salad for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Add Crunch: Incorporate chopped bell peppers or toasted nuts for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
• Mix Dressings: Experiment with adding some lime vinaigrette along with the creamy dressing for a tangy kick.

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

Pairing side dishes with this Elote Pasta Salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinate chicken pieces in spices and grill them until juicy and tender. These skewers make a great protein addition.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and squash with olive oil and roast them until caramelized.
3. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill halved bell peppers with quinoa or rice mixed with beans, corn, and spices for a hearty side.
4. Avocado Salsa: Create a fresh salsa by mixing diced avocado, tomatoes, onions, lime juice, and cilantro. This adds freshness to your meal.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Bake some cornbread muffins on the side; their slight sweetness pairs well with the savory flavors of the pasta salad.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made from seasonal berries and citrus offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta dish.
7. Black Bean Dip: Serve alongside tortilla chips for an easy-to-make dip that complements the Mexican-inspired flavors of your meal.
8. Cucumber Salad: A simple cucumber salad tossed in vinegar and herbs provides crispness that balances the creaminess of the pasta salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Elote Pasta Salad, be mindful of these common mistakes to ensure maximum flavor and texture.

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta longer than necessary can lead to a mushy texture. Follow package directions closely, and aim for al dente.
• Using canned corn instead of fresh or frozen: Canned corn can lack flavor. Opt for fresh roasted corn or frozen corn for better taste and texture.
• Skipping the dressing: Not adding the creamy dressing can make the salad dry. Mix well and ensure all ingredients are coated for a flavorful dish.
• Chopping vegetables too large: Large pieces can disrupt the balance of flavors. Dice your onions and jalapenos small for even distribution throughout the salad.
• Forgetting to cool the pasta: Adding warm pasta to the salad can wilt fresh ingredients. Allow it to cool completely before combining with other components.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• Freezing is not recommended due to the nature of the ingredients, especially dairy.
• If necessary, you can freeze without cheese and add it later upon thawing.

Reheating Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently.

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! You can substitute cotija cheese with queso fresco, feta, or even parmesan for a different flavor profile.

How do I make this salad vegan?

You can replace Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with plant-based alternatives. Use vegan cheese or omit it entirely for a lighter version.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! Just wait to add cilantro and cheese until right before serving to maintain freshness.

What should I serve with Elote Pasta Salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish, making it a great side dish for barbecues or summer dinners.

Final Thoughts

This Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) combines vibrant flavors and colorful ingredients that will delight your taste buds. It’s versatile enough to be served as a side dish or a main course. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins!