Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

This Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) brings the vibrant flavors of traditional Mexican street corn right to your table. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a simple family dinner, this pasta salad is not only delicious but also visually stunning. The combination of roasted corn, creamy dressing, and fresh herbs makes it a standout dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Fusion: This recipe combines the rich taste of roasted corn with a zesty dressing for a unique twist on traditional pasta salads.
• Easy to Prepare: With minimal cooking required, you can whip up this salad in under 30 minutes.
• Versatile Dish: Ideal as a side dish or a main course, it pairs well with grilled meats or as a standalone vegetarian meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this salad serves up to 10 people, making it great for parties or family meals.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and protein-rich Greek yogurt, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make preparing your Elote Pasta Salad easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta efficiently and ensuring it cooks evenly.
• Colander: Helps drain the pasta quickly while keeping it intact.
• Baking sheet: Perfect for roasting corn to enhance its flavor without mess.
• Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining all ingredients seamlessly.
• Whisk: Useful for mixing the dressing smoothly without lumps.

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 package directions.
2. For al dente texture, cook it 1–2 minutes less than recommended.
3. Drain the pasta and toss it with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Let it cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

1. If using fresh ears of corn:
2. Cook them using your preferred method until tender.
3. Remove kernels from the cob.
4. Optionally coat with olive oil, salt, and pepper; wrap in foil; then roast at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes.
5. If using frozen corn:
6. Heat in a skillet over medium-high heat until warmed through (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, 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 corn (or thawed frozen corn), cilantro, red onion, cotija cheese, and jalapeno.
2. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently to combine.

Step 5: Serve Fresh

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

Enjoy your delicious Elote Pasta Salad at your next gathering!

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

This Elote Pasta Salad is not just delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to enhance your meal or gathering. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your dining experience.

As a Side Dish

• Perfect alongside grilled meats like chicken or turkey, adding a fresh and tangy flavor.
• Great for potlucks, offering a crowd-pleasing option that complements various main dishes.

In a Lettuce Wrap

• Serve the salad in large lettuce leaves for a light, refreshing bite, ideal for summer gatherings.
• This adds a crunchy texture and makes for an appealing presentation.

Topped with Extra Herbs

• Garnish with additional cilantro or parsley just before serving to enhance flavor and color.
• This makes the dish look vibrant and inviting on the table.

In a Mason Jar

• Layer the salad ingredients in mason jars for easy transport and individual servings.
• This is perfect for picnics or meal prep, keeping each component fresh until ready to enjoy.

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. They will enhance the flavors and textures of your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and herbs elevate the salad’s taste. If possible, opt for fresh corn over frozen for maximum flavor.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by adding more jalapeño or including a splash of hot sauce if you enjoy spicy food.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Mix Just Before Serving: To maintain the pasta’s texture, mix everything just before serving, especially if preparing in advance.
• Experiment with Cheese: While cotija is traditional, try other cheeses like feta or parmesan for different flavor profiles.

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

Pairing your Elote Pasta Salad with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken pieces grilled to perfection offer protein that pairs wonderfully with this pasta salad.
2. Roasted Vegetable Medley: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until tender brings earthy flavors that balance the salad’s freshness.
3. Crispy Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside salsa or guacamole for a crunchy element that invites dipping and sharing.
4. Black Bean Salsa: A refreshing black bean salsa adds protein and complements the corn flavors perfectly.
5. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip rounds out your meal with healthy fats and rich flavor, enhancing every bite of pasta salad.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to the savory elements of the salad while adding more corn flavor.
7. Grilled Shrimp Tacos: Light tacos filled with grilled shrimp can be a fun way to enjoy additional seafood flavors alongside your pasta dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Elote Pasta Salad, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the cooling step: Not letting the pasta cool before mixing can result in a soggy salad. Always cool the pasta to maintain the right texture.
• Overcooking the corn: Overcooked corn can lose its sweetness and crunch. Cook just until tender, whether using fresh or frozen corn.
• Ignoring seasoning: Neglecting to season with salt and pepper can dull the flavors. Taste and adjust your seasonings for a vibrant dish.
• Adding cheese too early: If you prepare this salad in advance, add cotija cheese just before serving to keep it fresh and crumbly.
• Using low-quality mayonnaise: The dressing’s flavor relies heavily on mayonnaise quality. Choose a good quality olive oil mayonnaise for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep it chilled at all times to maintain freshness.

Freezing Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• Freezing is not recommended due to the creamy dressing; it may separate upon thawing.
• If necessary, freeze without dressing and add it after thawing.

Reheating Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm in a baking dish covered with foil for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Gently heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious Elote Pasta Salad:

What makes this Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) unique?

This recipe combines classic Mexican street corn flavors with pasta, creating a fun fusion dish that is both hearty and refreshing.

Can I use different cheeses in the salad?

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

How long does it take to prepare this Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)?

The total time is approximately 30 minutes, including cooking and cooling down your ingredients.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It’s perfect for meal prep; just remember to add fresh herbs and cheese right before serving.

Can I customize this Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)?

Definitely! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or substitute different herbs according to your taste.

Final Thoughts

This Elote Pasta Salad is not only a delightful blend of flavors but also versatile enough for various occasions. Whether as a side dish at gatherings or a main course on warm days, it’s sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients!