Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

This Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) combines the vibrant and delicious flavors of traditional Mexican street corn with tender pasta, creating a dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, attending a potluck, or just looking for a fresh side dish, this pasta salad is sure to impress. The creamy dressing, combined with the sweetness of roasted corn and the tang of cotija cheese, makes this salad stand out as a crowd favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This salad comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of roasted corn, spices, and creamy dressing delivers a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side dish or add protein to make it a filling main course.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time! It stores well in the fridge and tastes even better after the flavors meld.
• Crowd-Pleasing: With its unique flavors and vibrant colors, this dish is sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Elote Pasta Salad successful, you will need some essential tools. These items will help streamline your cooking process and ensure delicious results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Necessary for boiling pasta efficiently. A good-sized pot prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
• Colander: Essential for draining pasta. It allows you to quickly remove excess water without losing any pasta.
• Baking sheet: Perfect for roasting fresh corn. A flat surface ensures even heating and caramelization.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients easily. A large bowl gives you enough space to mix without spills.
• Whisk: Important for blending dressings smoothly. It helps incorporate all ingredients evenly for the best flavor.

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. If you prefer al dente pasta, cook it 1-2 minutes less than the box calls for.
2. When the pasta is done cooking, drain it in a colander and toss it with a drizzle of olive oil. Let it cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

1. If using fresh ears of corn, cook them using your preferred method until kernels are tender.
2. Remove corn kernels from the cob after cooking.
3. For roasting: Coat corn with olive oil, salt, and pepper; wrap in foil; roast at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes.
4. If using frozen corn, 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 using a whisk or spoon until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, add cooled pasta, roasted or heated corn kernels, chopped cilantro, diced red onion, cotija cheese, and chopped jalapeno.
2. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine.

Step 5: Serve Fresh

Hint: If making this salad in advance, wait to add cotija cheese and cilantro until right before serving to keep them fresh.

Enjoy your Elote Pasta Salad as a delightful side or main dish that brings all the joy of Mexican street corn into one delicious recipe!

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

Elote pasta salad is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for a quick lunch, this pasta salad brings vibrant flavors to any table. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

As a Standalone Dish

• Enjoy this salad on its own as a refreshing and filling meal. The combination of pasta, corn, and creamy dressing makes it satisfying.

With Grilled Proteins

• Pair the elote pasta salad with grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak. The smoky flavors complement the salad’s brightness perfectly.

As a Side Dish

• Serve it alongside your favorite Mexican dishes like tacos or enchiladas. This adds a wonderful contrast and enhances the overall meal.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a low-carb option, scoop the salad into large lettuce leaves. This makes for a fun and light way to enjoy the flavors.

At Potlucks and Gatherings

• Bring this dish to potlucks or family gatherings. Its unique flavor profile is sure to impress guests and spark conversations.

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

To make your elote pasta salad truly special, consider these tips for perfection. Small adjustments can lead to big flavor enhancements.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn kernels and herbs will provide the best flavor and texture compared to frozen or canned options.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by adding more jalapeno or using less chili powder based on your preference.
• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to rest in the fridge for at least an hour lets the flavors meld beautifully.
• Mix It Up: Feel free to add other veggies such as bell peppers or avocado for extra freshness and nutrition.
• Garnish Creatively: Top with extra cotija cheese and cilantro right before serving for an appealing presentation.
• Make Ahead of Time: Prepare this dish in advance but add fresh herbs just before serving to maintain their vibrant taste.

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

Elote pasta salad pairs well with many side dishes that enhance its Mexican street corn flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Vegetables: A mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and onions drizzled with olive oil creates a colorful addition to your meal.
2. Black Bean Salsa: Combine black beans, tomatoes, corn, and lime juice for a zesty dip that complements the salad nicely.
3. Corn Tortilla Chips: Serve with tortilla chips for crunch; they are perfect for scooping up elote pasta salad!
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the savory notes of the pasta salad.
5. Guacamole: Rich and creamy guacamole adds another layer of flavor that balances well with the tangy elements of the salad.
6. Spanish Rice: A side of flavorful Spanish rice provides heartiness while keeping in theme with Mexican cuisine.
7. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices make a nutritious side that complements the main dish effectively.
8. Quesadillas: Cheesy quesadillas can be made easily on the stovetop; they are always a crowd-pleaser when served alongside any Mexican-inspired dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making this delicious Elote Pasta Salad Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common missteps. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Skipping the Cooling Step: Not letting your pasta cool before mixing can lead to a mushy salad. Always cool the pasta after cooking for a better texture.
• Using Unseasoned Corn: Fresh corn needs flavor! If you’re using fresh corn, season it with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance its taste.
• Overmixing the Salad: Mixing too vigorously can break down the ingredients. Gently toss everything together for a beautiful presentation and texture.
• Forgetting the Dressing Balance: Not balancing your dressing can make the salad too dry or overly wet. Taste and adjust the dressing before serving for perfect flavor.
• Omitting Ingredients: Skipping any main ingredients like cotija cheese or jalapeño will change the overall taste. Stick to the recipe for that authentic flavor.
• Making it Too Early: Preparing this salad too far in advance can lead to soggy ingredients. Make it closer to serving time for optimal freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.

Freezing Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• This salad is not recommended for freezing due to the creamy dressing and fresh ingredients.
• If you must freeze, consider omitting some toppings and adding them fresh upon thawing.

Reheating Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm in an oven-safe dish for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently on low heat, stirring frequently until heated without overcooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) that might help you enjoy this dish even more.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! You can use any pasta shape you prefer. Just ensure it’s cooked al dente.

Is this salad gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version of this Elote Pasta Salad Recipe, use gluten-free pasta.

How can I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add additional vegetables or proteins such as grilled chicken or black beans for more substance.

What are good substitutes for cotija cheese?

You can substitute cotija cheese with queso fresco, feta, or even grated parmesan cheese if needed.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best to add fresh herbs and cheese right before serving to maintain their texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Elote Pasta Salad Recipe is a delightful blend of flavors inspired by Mexican street corn. It’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or just a cozy dinner at home. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins. Give it a try—you might discover your new go-to pasta salad!