Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious dish that combines the vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn with the comforting familiarity of pasta, then this Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) is just what you need! This salad brings together sweet roasted corn, creamy cheese, fresh herbs, and a tangy dressing that will have everyone coming back for seconds. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a colorful side at family gatherings and potlucks.

What makes this recipe so special is not only its delightful taste but also how easily it comes together. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a dish that feels like a celebration of flavors. Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit various occasions, making it an instant favorite in any home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for those busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: The combination of pasta and sweet corn is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance, and just add the finishing touches before serving for stress-free entertaining.
• Delicious Flavor: With zesty lime and spices, every bite is packed with flavor that will transport your taste buds to the streets of Mexico.
• Customizable: Feel free to play around with ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make this delightful Elote Pasta Salad. You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store!

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

Variations

This Elote Pasta Salad is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you love or have available.

• Add Protein: Toss in some grilled chicken or black beans for an extra protein boost!
• Switch Up the Cheese: Try using feta for a tangy twist or parmesan for a nuttier flavor.
• Make It Spicy: If you like heat, add more jalapeno or even some diced serrano peppers!
• Go Vegan: Substitute the Greek yogurt and mayo with plant-based alternatives for a vegan-friendly version.

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

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking your pasta according to the package directions. For that perfect al dente texture, consider cooking it 1-2 minutes less than recommended. Once done, drain it well and toss it with a drizzle of olive oil. This helps prevent sticking and gives it a lovely sheen as it cools down.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

If you’re using fresh ears of corn, remove the kernels after cooking them using your favorite method. I love roasting mine wrapped in foil with olive oil, salt, and pepper at 425°F (220°C) for about 25-30 minutes—this really brings out their sweetness! If frozen corn is what you’ve got on hand, simply sauté it in a skillet on medium-high heat until warmed through—about 4-5 minutes should do the trick!

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, mix together your creamy dressing! Combine Greek yogurt, olive oil mayonnaise, lime zest, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk until everything is well combined. This dressing adds that signature zing that ties all the flavors together!

Step 4: Assemble Your Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with roasted corn kernels, chopped cilantro (or parsley), diced red onion, cotija cheese (or your choice of cheese), and jalapeno. Pour that luscious dressing over everything and gently toss to coat all those delicious ingredients evenly.

Step 5: Serving Suggestions

If you’re preparing this salad ahead of time, hold off on adding cilantro and cotija cheese until just before serving to keep things fresh! Enjoy this delightful Elote Pasta Salad chilled or at room temperature—it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!

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

This Elote Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on traditional flavors, and with these tips, you’ll make it even more delicious!

• Use fresh ingredients: Opting for fresh corn and herbs will enhance the salad’s flavor and texture, making it vibrant and appealing.

• Cook pasta perfectly: For the best texture, aim for al dente pasta; this will help it hold up against the creamy dressing without becoming mushy.

• Customize your heat level: Adjust the amount of jalapeno to your taste; if you prefer a milder salad, remove all seeds and add less pepper.

• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a more cohesive dish.

• Add protein: If you’re looking for a heartier meal, consider tossing in some black beans or grilled chicken for added protein and texture.

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

Serving this Elote Pasta Salad can be as fun as making it! Here are some creative ways to present this colorful dish that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro right before serving adds a burst of color and enhances the salad’s fresh flavor.

• Lime wedges: Serve with lime wedges on the side so everyone can squeeze a little extra citrus on their portions for an extra zesty kick.

• Extra cotija cheese: A light dusting of cotija cheese on top adds an appealing look and reinforces that delicious cheesy flavor.

Side Dishes

• Grilled vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies like zucchini and bell peppers complement the salad’s flavors while adding more nutrients to your meal.

• Cornbread: A sweet cornbread alongside this pasta salad makes for a delightful Southern twist that balances out the spiciness from the jalapeno.

• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado slices provide a rich contrast to the tanginess of the salad and offer healthy fats, making them a perfect pairing.

• Tortilla chips with salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with your favorite salsa make for a great appetizer or side that ties back to those classic Mexican street food vibes.

Enjoy your Elote Pasta Salad; it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your household!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Elote Pasta Salad is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip it up in advance, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or gatherings. Here’s how to store it properly to keep those delightful flavors intact.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best enjoyed within 3-4 days of making.
• If you’re adding fresh herbs or cheese, consider keeping them separate until serving for maximum freshness.

Freezing

• This pasta salad is not ideal for freezing due to the creamy dressing, but if necessary, you can freeze the undressed components (pasta, corn, and veggies) for up to a month.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before adding the dressing and fresh ingredients.

Reheating

• If you’d like to warm it up slightly, place it in the microwave on low power for 30 seconds at a time, stirring in between.
• However, this dish is best served cold or at room temperature, so consider enjoying it straight from the fridge!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make this Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just add the fresh herbs and cheese right before serving to keep them vibrant and flavorful.

What can I substitute for cotija cheese in this Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)?

If cotija cheese isn’t available, you can use queso fresco, feta cheese, or even parmesan as a great alternative. Each will add its unique flavor!

Can I add other vegetables to my Elote Pasta Salad?

Definitely! Feel free to include bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or avocado for extra color and nutrients. Just be mindful of how they complement the overall flavor!

Final Thoughts

This Elote Pasta Salad is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors inspired by beloved Mexican street corn. I hope you find joy in making this dish as much as I do! It’s perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying with family on a cozy evening. Dive into this delightful recipe and let your taste buds revel in every bite!