Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

This Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) combines the vibrant flavors of traditional Mexican street corn with pasta for a refreshing twist. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or weeknight dinners, this salad is sure to impress your guests with its creamy dressing and crunchy textures. Easy to prepare, it brings together wholesome ingredients that celebrate the essence of summer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: This salad features roasted corn, tangy lime, and spices that create a delightful taste experience.
• Quick and Easy: In just about 30 minutes, you can whip up this dish, making it a perfect choice for busy days.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a side dish or a main meal; it’s great for any occasion!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh veggies and Greek yogurt, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance for gatherings; simply add the cheese and cilantro before serving.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn), gather your tools and prepare your workspace efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or spoon
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking pasta evenly without sticking.
• Skillet: Great for roasting corn to enhance its flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Allows you to combine all ingredients thoroughly without mess.
• Whisk or spoon: Useful for mixing the dressing smoothly.

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 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

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

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook pasta according to the package directions. If you prefer al dente pasta, cook it 1-2 minutes less than indicated. Once done cooking:
1. Drain the pasta.
2. Toss it in a drizzle of olive oil.
3. Let it cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

If using fresh ears of corn:
1. Cook them using your preferred method until tender.
2. Remove corn kernels from the cob.

If using frozen corn:
1. Heat it in a skillet over medium-high heat until thawed and warmed (about 4-5 minutes).

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl:
1. Combine Greek yogurt, olive oil mayonnaise, lime zest, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix well using a whisk or spoon until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl:
1. Add cooled pasta, roasted corn (or thawed frozen corn), cilantro, diced red onion, cotija cheese, and chopped jalapeno.
2. Pour the dressing on top.
3. Toss everything gently to combine.

Step 5: Serve

• If preparing in advance:
• Wait to add cotija cheese and cilantro until right before serving for optimal freshness.

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

Elote Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, attending a potluck, or simply enjoying a meal at home, this salad is sure to impress.

At a BBQ

• Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish that complements grilled meats like chicken or steak.
• Consider garnishing with extra cotija cheese for added flavor and visual appeal.

For Lunch

• Pack in a lunch container for a delicious and filling meal option.
• Pair with tortilla chips on the side for an extra crunch.

As an Appetizer

• Scoop into small cups for individual servings at parties.
• Drizzle with lime juice right before serving for a zesty kick.

Alongside Tacos

• Serve next to your favorite tacos, enhancing the Mexican flavors of your meal.
• Add slices of avocado for a creamy contrast.

During Picnics

• Bring along in an insulated bag to keep it cool and fresh.
• Use mason jars for easy transport and serving.

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

To ensure your Elote Pasta Salad stands out, consider these simple tips. They will enhance the flavors and textures of the dish.

• Choose quality pasta: Opt for high-quality pasta that holds up well when mixed with other ingredients. It should be cooked al dente for the best texture.
• Use fresh corn: If possible, use fresh corn on the cob instead of frozen. The sweetness and crunch of freshly roasted corn make a noticeable difference.
• Mix dressing thoroughly: Ensure that the dressing is well combined before adding it to the salad. This helps distribute flavors evenly throughout.
• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator enhances flavor melding. Aim for at least 30 minutes before serving.
• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to tweak the amount of jalapeno or spices based on your heat preference. This makes it customizable for different palates.

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

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

1. Grilled Chicken Tacos – Tender chicken marinated in spices, served in warm tortillas, adds protein and flavor.
2. Black Bean Salsa – A refreshing mix of black beans, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro; perfect for scooping with tortilla chips.
3. Spanish Rice – Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices offers a comforting side that matches well with Mexican cuisine.
4. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to the savory pasta salad.
5. Avocado Salad – A light salad featuring ripe avocados and citrus dressing balances the richness of the pasta salad nicely.
6. Chili Lime Grilled Shrimp – Quick-grilled shrimp marinated in chili and lime adds a zesty seafood option that pairs perfectly with this dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn), it’s important to steer clear of common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Using overcooked pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can make it mushy. Aim for al dente for the best texture.
• Neglecting fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables enhance flavor. Always use fresh cilantro and jalapenos when possible.
• Skipping the dressing preparation: The creamy dressing is key. Don’t rush this step; mix well for a balanced taste.
• Adding cheese too early: Cotija cheese should be added last if making ahead, to keep it fresh and flavorful.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste your salad before serving. You may want to adjust lime juice, salt, or spices for your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the salad cool to maintain freshness.

Freezing Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• Freezing is not recommended as it affects the texture of pasta and fresh ingredients.
• If necessary, freeze without dressing for up to 2 months.

Reheating Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat while stirring to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

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

What can I add to spice up my Elote Pasta Salad?

For extra heat, try adding more jalapeno or a dash of hot sauce. You could also include diced red bell pepper for sweetness.

How do I make this salad vegan?

To make a vegan version of the Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn), substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and use vegan mayonnaise.

Is this pasta salad gluten-free?

You can make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. Check other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free as well.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The total preparation time is about 30 minutes, with 5 minutes of prep and around 25 minutes of cooking time.

Final Thoughts

This Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) combines classic flavors in a creamy dish that’s perfect for gatherings or simple dinners. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins. Enjoy this delightful blend of textures and tastes!