Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

This Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) is a vibrant dish that brings the iconic flavors of Mexican street corn to your table. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a quick weeknight dinner, this salad features roasted corn, tender pasta, and a creamy dressing. Its fresh ingredients and delightful textures make it a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Fusion: Enjoy the delicious combination of roasted corn and zesty spices that captures the essence of Mexican street food.
• Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a hearty side or main dish ready in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: This pasta salad works well as a side at parties or as a main dish for lunch, making it suitable for any occasion.
• Fresh Ingredients: Packed with fresh herbs and vegetables, this recipe offers nutrients while maintaining great taste.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences; swap out cheeses or add extra veggies for variety!

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making this Elote Pasta Salad, gather your tools and get ready. The right equipment will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly and ensuring it cooks to perfection.
• Colander: Helps drain excess water from the pasta without losing any pieces.
• Baking sheet: Ideal for roasting corn in the oven, enhancing its natural sweetness through caramelization.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining all the ingredients without mess.

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 and Corn

• 8 oz pasta, dry
• 4 cups whole corn kernels (454g), or 16 oz bag of frozen corn

For the Vegetables and Herbs

• 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 Creamy 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

1. Cook pasta according to package directions.
2. If you prefer al dente pasta, cook it 1-2 minutes less than the box calls for.
3. When done cooking, drain the pasta and toss it with a drizzle of olive oil. Let it cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

1. If using fresh ears of corn:
2. Coat them with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Wrap in foil and roast at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes.
4. If using frozen corn:
5. Heat in a skillet on medium-high heat until thawed and warmed (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 until combined using a whisk or spoon.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, add cooled pasta, roasted corn (or thawed), chopped cilantro, diced red onion, cotija cheese, and chopped jalapeno.
2. Pour dressing over top and toss gently to combine.

Step 5: Serve

• Hint: If preparing in advance, wait to add cotija cheese and cilantro until just before serving for optimal freshness.

Enjoy this delightful Elote Pasta Salad at your next gathering or as an easy meal during busy weekdays!

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

Elote Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to suit any occasion. Its vibrant flavors and textures make it a perfect fit for gatherings or a simple family dinner. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

As a Main Dish

• This salad can stand alone as a satisfying main course. The combination of pasta, corn, and protein makes it filling and hearty.

As a Side Dish

• Pair this pasta salad with grilled meats or vegetables for a balanced meal. It complements dishes like grilled chicken or steak wonderfully.

At Picnics and Potlucks

• Elote Pasta Salad is an excellent choice for outdoor events. Its fresh ingredients and creamy dressing will impress your friends and family.

For Meal Prep

• This salad keeps well in the refrigerator, making it ideal for weekly meal prep. Prepare it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

Topped with Proteins

• Add shredded chicken or cooked turkey for extra protein. This not only enhances flavor but also makes the dish more filling.

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

Creating the perfect Elote Pasta Salad requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh corn instead of frozen when possible. This adds natural sweetness and crunch.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your dressing before mixing it into the salad. Feel free to adjust lime juice or spices according to your preference.
• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
• Garnish Creatively: Top with additional cilantro or cotija cheese just before serving for a pop of color and flavor.
• Experiment with Spice: If you like heat, add more jalapeño or some diced serrano peppers for an extra kick.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness for up to three days.

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

Pairing side dishes with Elote Pasta Salad can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delicious options that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewered and grilled adds protein while keeping the meal light.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized create a tasty side that brings out earthy flavors.
3. Black Bean Salsa: A fresh bean salsa offers contrasting textures and flavors, making it an excellent addition.
4. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob echoes the corn theme while adding sweetness.
5. Tortilla Chips with Guacamole: Crunchy tortilla chips paired with creamy guacamole provide a delightful appetizer option.
6. Simple Green Salad: A light green salad with a citrus vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta salad nicely.
7. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice offer a nutritious option alongside your pasta salad.
8. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate after enjoying rich flavors from the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Elote Pasta Salad Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the Cooling Step: Not allowing the pasta to cool can lead to a soggy salad. Toss it with olive oil and let it chill before mixing in other ingredients.
• Overcooking the Corn: Overcooked corn loses its crispness. Roast or sauté until just tender for that perfect texture.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to season properly can result in bland flavors. Use spices like chili powder and smoked paprika generously for that authentic taste.
• Adding Cheese Too Early: Mixing cotija cheese in advance can cause it to become mushy. Add it right before serving for the best texture.
• Not Adjusting Ingredients: Personal preferences matter! Feel free to swap out herbs or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture of the pasta and vegetables.
• If you must freeze, try removing certain ingredients like cheese and fresh herbs.

Reheating Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 15-20 minutes. This helps retain moisture.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat on low heat while stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, any type of pasta works well. Short shapes like rotini or penne hold onto the dressing beautifully.

What can I substitute for cotija cheese?

You can use queso fresco, feta, or parmesan cheese as alternatives if cotija is unavailable.

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

The spice level depends on how much jalapeno you add. For less heat, you can omit it or use less than called for.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! Just remember to add fresh herbs and cheese right before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Elote Pasta Salad Recipe brings all the delicious flavors of traditional Mexican street corn into a delightful pasta dish. Its versatility means you can easily customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting spice levels. Give it a try, and enjoy a refreshing meal that’s perfect for any occasion!

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: Lara
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn in this delightful Elote Pasta Salad. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or quick weeknight dinners, this salad combines roasted corn, tender pasta, and a creamy dressing for a refreshing dish that’s sure to impress your friends and family. Packed with fresh ingredients like cilantro and jalapeño, this recipe is not only delicious but also customizable to suit your taste. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a colorful and satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and flavorful!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz dry pasta
• 4 cups whole corn kernels (or 16 oz frozen corn)
• ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese (or queso fresco/feta)
• ½ red onion, diced
• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 jalapeño pepper, chopped
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 Tbsp olive oil mayonnaise
• Juice and zest of 1 lime
• Spices: chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper

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Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss with olive oil; let cool.
2. If using fresh corn, roast in foil at 425°F for 25-30 minutes; if using frozen corn, heat in a skillet until warmed through.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil mayonnaise, lime zest and juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, corn (roasted or thawed), cilantro, red onion, cotija cheese (reserve some for garnish), and jalapeño.
5. Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Roasting/Boiling
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 360mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 15mg