Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

This Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) captures the essence of traditional Mexican street corn and transforms it into a delightful pasta dish. Perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or a simple family dinner, this salad combines tender pasta with roasted corn, creamy dressing, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese. The vibrant flavors and textures make it an irresistible choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of roasted corn, spices, and fresh herbs delivers a flavor explosion in every bite.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this salad in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile Side Dish: This pasta salad pairs well with grilled meats, tacos, or can be enjoyed alone as a light meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its unique taste and colorful presentation are sure to impress your guests at any potluck or barbecue.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh produce and Greek yogurt, this dish brings a nutritious twist to your table.

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Tools and Preparation

To make the Elote Pasta Salad successfully, you’ll need some essential tools that help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the pasta evenly and ensuring it has enough space to move around while boiling.
• Colander: Helps drain the cooked pasta thoroughly without losing any pieces in the process.
• Baking sheet: Perfect for roasting fresh corn and achieving that delicious caramelized flavor.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without spilling over.

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!

Ingredients:
– 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 the package directions. For al dente texture, cook it 1–2 minutes less than indicated.
2. Once cooked, drain the pasta and toss it in a drizzle of olive oil. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

1. If using fresh corn on the cob:
2. Coat 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:
2. Greek yogurt,
3. olive oil mayonnaise,
4. lime zest,
5. lime juice,
6. chili powder,
7. smoked paprika,
8. garlic powder,
9. kosher salt,
10. black pepper.
11. Mix well using a whisk or spoon until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, add:
2. Cooled pasta,
3. Roasted corn,
4. Chopped cilantro,
5. Diced red onion,
6. Crumbled cotija cheese,
7. Chopped jalapeno.
8. Pour the dressing over the top and toss everything together until combined.

Step 5: Serve Your Salad

Hint: If preparing ahead of time, wait to add cotija cheese and cilantro until right before serving to keep them fresh!

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

Elote Pasta Salad is a vibrant dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, attending a potluck, or simply enjoying a light meal, this salad fits right in. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

As a Side Dish

• Pair it with grilled chicken or steak for a hearty meal.
• Serve alongside fish tacos for a refreshing complement.

In a Wrap

• Spoon the salad into a tortilla wrap for a tasty on-the-go lunch.
• Add extra jalapeños for those who enjoy a little heat.

As an Appetizer

• Offer it as part of a buffet spread with chips and salsa.
• Use small cups for individual servings at parties.

With Avocado Slices

• Top the salad with fresh avocado slices for added creaminess.
• Drizzle lime juice over the avocados to enhance their flavor.

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

To achieve the best Elote Pasta Salad, consider these tips. They will help you enhance flavors and improve the overall texture of your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and herbs will provide the best flavors compared to frozen or dried options.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad chill in the refrigerator allows flavors to meld together nicely.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of jalapeno based on your spice preference; you can always add more later!
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different types of cheese like queso fresco or feta if you can’t find cotija.
• Add Texture: For extra crunch, sprinkle some toasted nuts or seeds on top just before serving.
• Make it Ahead: This salad can be made in advance, but add fresh ingredients like cilantro and cheese right before serving for best results.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Elote Pasta Salad can create a delightful meal. Here are some excellent options that complement its vibrant flavors.

1. Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Simple and flavorful skewers seasoned with lime juice and spices make an excellent pairing.
2. Black Bean Tacos: These hearty tacos filled with black beans and veggies are perfect for those looking for plant-based options.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brushed with chili powder and lime enhances the street corn theme of your meal.
4. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted with olive oil pairs well with the creamy salad.
5. Guacamole and Chips: Creamy guacamole served with crunchy tortilla chips offers great contrast to the pasta salad’s texture.
6. Cilantro Lime Rice: Light and zesty rice makes an excellent base if you’re looking to serve this pasta salad as part of a larger meal.
7. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with quinoa, black beans, and spices add nutrition and flavor variety.
8. Chips & Salsa: A classic combo that adds crunch and brightness, making it perfect for snacking before dinner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn), it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can make it mushy. Aim for al dente by checking a minute or two before the recommended cooking time.
• Using uncooked corn: Fresh corn needs to be cooked for the best flavor. If you skip this step, your salad may lack that signature elote taste.
• Not letting the pasta cool: Adding warm pasta to the salad can wilt your fresh ingredients. Allow it to cool completely before mixing.
• Skipping the dressing blend: Mixing your dressing ingredients too briefly can lead to uneven flavor. Whisk thoroughly until well combined for consistent taste in every bite.
• Adding cheese too early: If making ahead, add cotija cheese just before serving to keep its texture and flavor intact.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The salad will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• It’s best not to freeze this salad as the texture of ingredients like corn and cheese can change upon thawing.

Reheating Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

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 great! Just thaw and heat it before adding it to your salad.

What can I substitute for cotija cheese?

You can use queso fresco, feta, or even parmesan cheese if cotija isn’t available.

How spicy is this Elote Pasta Salad Recipe?

The spice level primarily comes from jalapenos. You can adjust or omit them based on your preference.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and use vegan mayonnaise for a delicious vegan version.

How do I serve this salad?

This salad is perfect as a side dish for barbecues or potlucks but also works as a main course during lunch.

Final Thoughts

This Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that everyone will love. It’s versatile enough for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a simple meal at home. Feel free to customize with other veggies or proteins according to your taste!