Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

This Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) captures the vibrant flavors of traditional Mexican street corn. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or as a refreshing side dish, this pasta salad is sure to impress. With roasted corn, creamy dressing, and a burst of fresh herbs, it’s an irresistible twist on a classic favorite that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of roasted corn and spices creates a mouthwatering taste that stands out at any gathering.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal cooking time, you can whip up this salad in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a side dish or main course; it pairs well with various proteins or can be served alone.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for gatherings, this salad serves ten and is always a hit among guests.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and Greek yogurt, it’s a nutritious option without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Elote Pasta Salad, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure your cooking process runs smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or spoon
• Baking sheet (if roasting corn)

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Necessary for boiling pasta efficiently while allowing enough space for movement.
• Whisk or spoon: Helps achieve a well-mixed dressing for even flavor distribution throughout the salad.

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 Base

• 8 oz pasta, dry
• 4 cups whole corn kernels (454g), or 16 oz bag of frozen corn

For the Flavor

• 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 the box calls for. When the pasta is done cooking, drain it and toss it in a drizzle of olive oil. Let it cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

If using fresh ears of corn:
1. Cook using your preferred method.
2. Remove corn kernels from the cob. I coat mine with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Wrap in foil and roast it in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes. Grilling adds great flavor too!

If using frozen corn:
1. Heat it in a skillet on 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, and spices.
2. Mix well using a whisk or spoon.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl:
1. Add cooled pasta, corn, cilantro, red onion, cotija cheese, and jalapeno.
2. Pour dressing on top and toss to combine.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

If making this salad in advance:
1. Wait to add cotija cheese and cilantro until right before serving for freshness.

Enjoy this delightful Elote Pasta Salad as your new go-to dish for any occasion!

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

Elote Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that can brighten up any meal. Here are some great ways to serve this delicious salad.

As a Side Dish

• Pair it with grilled chicken or turkey for a hearty meal.
• Serve alongside tacos or burritos to complement the Mexican flavors.

At a Potluck

• Bring it to gatherings, as it’s easy to make in bulk and always a crowd-pleaser.
• Offer it in a large bowl with serving utensils for easy access.

As a Light Lunch

• Enjoy it on its own for a refreshing and satisfying lunch option.
• Add extra veggies or proteins for more substance.

With Fresh Tortilla Chips

• Serve with crispy tortilla chips for an exciting crunch.
• Drizzle some extra dressing on the chips for added flavor.

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

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

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh corn and herbs will enhance the flavors significantly.
• Adjust the spiciness: Modify the amount of jalapeno based on your heat preference.
• Chill before serving: Letting the salad chill in the fridge allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Add texture: Consider incorporating diced bell peppers or avocado for additional crunch and creaminess.

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

Elote Pasta Salad is versatile and pairs well with various side dishes. Here are some excellent options to complement your meal.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add color and nutrients.
2. Black Bean Salad: A protein-packed side that pairs well with the flavors of the pasta salad.
3. Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole provides a delightful contrast to the pasta’s texture.
4. Mexican Rice: Flavorful rice seasoned with spices rounds out your meal perfectly.
5. Crispy Nachos: Crunchy nachos topped with cheese or beans offer an enjoyable snack alongside the salad.
6. Spicy Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with chili powder give an extra kick to your dinner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) a hit!

• Skipping the cooling step – Not letting the pasta cool properly can cause the dressing to become watery. Always toss the drained pasta in olive oil and allow it to cool before mixing.
• Overcooking the corn – Cooking corn too long can lead to a mushy texture. If using fresh corn, roast it just until tender for the best flavor and crunch.
• Neglecting to taste as you go – Failing to taste your salad during preparation may result in unbalanced flavors. Always sample the dressing and adjust seasoning as necessary.
• Adding cheese too early – Incorporating cotija cheese too soon can make it soggy. For optimal texture, add cheese right before serving.
• Choosing the wrong pasta shape – Using a pasta that is too large or small might not hold the dressing well. Opt for medium-sized pasta like rotini or penne for perfect bites.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Elote Pasta Salad in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• Freezing is not recommended for this dish as ingredients may become watery when thawed.

Reheating Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between until warm.
• Stovetop – Heat in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute cotija cheese with nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese alternative.

How can I customize my Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)?

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or avocado for extra flavor and texture.

Is this Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare everything except for the cheese and cilantro ahead of time. Add them right before serving for freshness.

Final Thoughts

This Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) combines delicious flavors reminiscent of traditional street corn into a delightful pasta dish. It’s versatile enough for potlucks or a family dinner, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients. Give it a try, and enjoy a crowd-pleasing salad that everyone will love!