Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

This Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) brings the delightful flavors of Mexican street corn right to your table. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a refreshing side dish, this pasta salad combines roasted corn, creamy dressing, and zesty herbs. Its unique blend of ingredients makes it a standout choice that everyone will enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of roasted corn and spices gives this pasta salad a vibrant taste that is hard to resist.
• Quick and Easy: With a total prep and cook time of just 30 minutes, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side at barbecues or as a main course; it adapts to any meal occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, this salad can serve up to 10 people, making it perfect for parties.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh veggies and Greek yogurt, it’s a nutritious choice without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Elote Pasta Salad Recipe smoothly, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Strainer
• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta efficiently, ensuring even cooking.
• Skillet: Great for warming frozen corn or roasting fresh corn kernels to enhance their flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without spills.
• Whisk or spoon: Important for mixing the dressing thoroughly to achieve the perfect consistency.

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

1. Cook pasta according to the package directions. For al dente texture, cook it 1-2 minutes less than suggested.
2. Drain the pasta once done and drizzle with olive oil. Toss gently and let it cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

1. If using fresh ears of corn:
2. Cook using your preferred method until tender.
3. Remove kernels from the cob.
4. Optionally coat with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting in foil at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes.
5. If using frozen corn:
6. Heat in a skillet on medium-high until thawed and warmed through (about 4–5 minutes).

Step 3: Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together:
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.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine:
2. Cooled pasta,
3. Corn,
4. Cilantro,
5. Red onion,
6. Cotija cheese,
7. Jalapeno.
8. Pour dressing over the mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Serve

Hint: If preparing in advance, add cotija cheese and cilantro right before serving for freshness!

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

Elote Pasta Salad is a vibrant dish that brings the flavors of Mexican street corn to your table. It’s perfect for gatherings, barbecues, or as a delightful lunch option. Here are some serving suggestions to make the most of this tasty salad.

As a Standalone Dish

• This pasta salad can be served chilled or at room temperature, making it an ideal choice for potlucks or picnics.

With Grilled Chicken

• Pairing the salad with grilled chicken adds protein and complements the flavors beautifully. Just season the chicken with lime and spices before grilling.

Alongside Tacos

• Serve Elote Pasta Salad as a refreshing side with your favorite tacos. The creamy dressing balances the spiciness of the tacos perfectly.

With Fresh Avocado Slices

• Adding slices of fresh avocado on top enhances creaminess and brings a rich texture to each bite.

Drizzled with Extra Lime Juice

• A little extra lime juice just before serving brightens up the dish and enhances the fresh flavors.

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

To ensure your Elote Pasta Salad turns out delicious every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh corn, herbs, and lime juice will elevate the flavor profile of your salad.
• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to modify the amount of jalapeno or chili powder according to your heat preference.
• Let it chill: Allowing the salad to sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes lets the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Mix gently: When combining ingredients, do so carefully to avoid breaking down the pasta or cheese.
• Experiment with cheeses: Cotija cheese is traditional, but feel free to try feta or even a vegan alternative for different flavor notes.
• Store properly: If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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

Elote Pasta Salad pairs well with a variety of side dishes that enhance its Mexican street corn flavors. Here are some suggestions:

1. Grilled Veggies
   A mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and onions grilled until tender adds a smoky flavor complementing the salad.

2. Black Bean Salsa
   A spicy black bean salsa adds protein and texture while providing a zesty kick that pairs well with this dish.

3. Cornbread Muffins
   Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful contrast and are great for soaking up any extra dressing from the salad.

4. Chips and Guacamole
   Crunchy tortilla chips served with guacamole make for a fun appetizer that matches perfectly with Elote Pasta Salad.

5. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can cleanse your palate and provide a sweet balance alongside savory dishes.

6. Cilantro Lime Rice
   Fluffy rice cooked with cilantro and lime adds another layer of flavor while keeping everything cohesive on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn), it’s important to avoid common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Ignoring Pasta Cooking Time: Cooking pasta too long can lead to mushiness. Always check the package instructions and consider cooking it al dente for the best texture.
• Overcooking Corn: Whether using fresh or frozen corn, overcooking can diminish flavor. For fresh corn, roasting is ideal; for frozen, just warm it up without losing its crunch.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Failing to season your ingredients properly can result in a bland salad. Don’t forget to taste and adjust salt, pepper, and spices as needed.
• Adding Cheese Too Early: If preparing ahead, wait until serving time to add cotija or other cheese. This helps maintain its texture and flavor.
• Skipping the Dressing Balance: A well-balanced dressing is key for flavor. Ensure you’re combining yogurt and mayonnaise with lime juice and spices for that creamy kick.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Keep the salad chilled to maintain freshness.

Freezing Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• It’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to the creamy dressing which may separate when thawed.
• If necessary, store without dressing for freezing.

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 a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet, stirring gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) that might help you:

Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

Yes! While cotija is traditional, you can substitute with queso fresco, feta, or parmesan cheese based on your preference.

How do I make this salad spicy?

You can increase the jalapeño amount or add a dash of hot sauce into the dressing for a spicier kick.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad stores well in the refrigerator and makes a great grab-and-go option for lunches.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

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

What can I serve with this pasta salad?

This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as part of a potluck spread alongside tacos or quesadillas.

Final Thoughts

This Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) combines delightful flavors reminiscent of street food with the heartiness of pasta. Its versatility allows for easy customization—feel free to adjust ingredients based on your taste or what you have on hand. Give it a try; it might become your go-to summer dish!