Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

This Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) is a delightful twist on classic pasta salads, infused with the vibrant flavors of traditional Mexican street corn. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a refreshing side at dinner, this salad combines roasted corn, creamy dressing, and fresh herbs. It’s sure to impress your family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of roasted corn, zesty lime, and spices creates a taste that’s both unique and comforting.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this pasta salad comes together quickly!
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side or main dish—great for any occasion from casual lunches to festive gatherings.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients like corn and Greek yogurt, this salad is not only delicious but also nutritious.
• Make Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance for busy days; just add fresh toppings before serving.

Tools and Preparation

To create this scrumptious Elote Pasta Salad, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Necessary for cooking pasta evenly and efficiently.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining all ingredients without making a mess.

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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 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 the pasta according to the package directions. If you prefer al dente pasta, cook it 1-2 minutes less than the box calls for. When 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 using your preferred method until tender.
2. Remove kernels from the cob.
– A great method is to coat them with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
– Wrap in foil and roast in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes.

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, and spices.
2. Mix well using a whisk or spoon until combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl:
1. Add cooled pasta along with corn, cilantro, red onion, cotija cheese, and jalapeno.
2. Pour the dressing on top.
3. Toss gently to combine.

Step 5: Serve Freshly

Hint: If making this salad in advance, wait to add cotija cheese and cilantro until right before serving for maximum freshness!

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

Elote Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a delicious side, this salad brings a taste of Mexican street corn to your table.

As a Standalone Dish

• This pasta salad can be served on its own as a light lunch or dinner option, packed with flavor and nutrition.

With Grilled Proteins

• Pair this salad with grilled chicken, beef, or turkey for a hearty meal. The smoky flavors complement the creamy dressing perfectly.

At Picnics and Potlucks

• Elote Pasta Salad is an ideal choice for gatherings. It’s easy to transport and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for picnics or potlucks.

As a Taco Side

• Serve the salad alongside tacos for a refreshing contrast. The creamy texture balances the spices commonly found in taco dishes.

In Meal Prep Containers

• Portion out servings into meal prep containers for quick lunches throughout the week. This dish stays fresh and tasty when stored properly.

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

Creating the perfect Elote Pasta Salad is simple with these helpful tips. Keep them in mind to enhance flavor and presentation.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh corn and herbs when available. This will elevate the taste and texture of your salad.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of jalapeño. For more kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper.

• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving helps meld the flavors together beautifully.

• Customize Cheese Choices: While cotija cheese is traditional, feel free to substitute with queso fresco or feta depending on your preference.

• Add Extra Veggies: Incorporate diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for added color and crunch in your salad.

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

Looking to round out your meal? Here are some delightful side dishes that pair well with Elote Pasta Salad.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken marinated in spices and grilled to perfection complements the creamy pasta salad wonderfully.

2. Black Bean Tacos: These vegetarian tacos filled with seasoned black beans are flavorful and provide a nice contrast to the pasta dish.

3. Corn on the Cob: Serve grilled or boiled corn brushed with lime and chili powder to echo the flavors of the pasta salad.

4. Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: A refreshing guacamole provides creaminess while crunchy chips add texture—perfect alongside your salad.

5. Stuffed Mini Peppers: Fill mini bell peppers with cream cheese or feta for an easy-to-eat appetizer that adds variety to your spread.

6. Cilantro Lime Rice: A fragrant rice dish infused with cilantro and lime makes an excellent pairing that complements Mexican flavors beautifully.

7. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies tossed in olive oil bring a warm element that balances out the cold pasta salad perfectly.

8. Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes adds crunch and nutrients, enhancing your overall meal experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating a delicious Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) can come with its challenges. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Not Cooking Pasta Properly: Overcooking the pasta can lead to a mushy texture. Follow the package instructions and aim for al dente for the best results.
• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using canned or frozen corn without heating it can diminish the flavor. Always heat fresh or frozen corn before adding it to enhance taste.
• Ignoring Dressing Balance: Adding too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with less, and add more as needed to achieve your desired creaminess.
• Chilling Too Long: Allowing the salad to chill for too long after mixing can cause it to lose its fresh flavors. Serve soon after combining ingredients for the best taste.
• Forgetting Herbs: Fresh herbs like cilantro add brightness to the dish. Don’t skip them; they are essential for authentic flavor!
• Adding Cheese Too Early: If making ahead, add cheese right before serving to maintain its texture and flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Item: Store in an airtight container.
• Duration: Best consumed within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• Item: Not recommended for freezing due to potential texture changes in ingredients like pasta and dressing.

Reheating Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes; cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warmed through; avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently until heated; add a splash of broth or water if it seems dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn):

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! You can substitute cotija cheese with queso fresco, feta, or parmesan based on your preference.

How do I make it vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, replace Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with plant-based alternatives and omit cheese or use a vegan cheese option.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare everything in advance but wait until just before serving to mix in cheese and fresh herbs for optimal flavor.

What can I serve with Elote Pasta Salad?

This pasta salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, tacos, or as a side dish at potlucks and barbecues.

How spicy is this recipe?

The spice level depends on how much jalapeno you include. For milder flavor, reduce or omit the jalapeno.

Final Thoughts

This Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) combines vibrant flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds. It’s perfect as a side dish for gatherings or as a main meal on its own. Feel free to customize by adding other vegetables or proteins of your choice!