Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

This Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn) combines the vibrant flavors of traditional Mexican street corn with the comforting essence of pasta. Perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or as a delicious side dish for any meal, this salad is creamy, satisfying, and loaded with fresh ingredients. With its zesty dressing and colorful toppings, it’s sure to become a favorite at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of roasted corn, creamy dressing, and spices creates a delightful flavor profile that captures the essence of Mexican street food.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a side or main dish. It’s great for BBQs, picnics, or even meal prep for the week ahead.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with corn, yogurt, and fresh herbs, this salad is not only tasty but also offers a good balance of nutrients.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients based on your preferences—try different cheeses or add other veggies for added crunch!

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into this delicious recipe, gathering essential tools will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Necessary for boiling pasta efficiently without overcrowding.
• Colander: Helps drain pasta and rinse it quickly so it can cool off before mixing.
• Baking sheet: Ideal for roasting corn evenly in the oven or on the grill.

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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!

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. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook pasta according to package directions. For al dente texture, reduce cooking time by 1-2 minutes.
3. Drain pasta in a colander and drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking. Let it cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

1. If using fresh corn, cook using your preferred method (boiling or grilling). Once cooked, cut kernels from cobs.
2. For roasting: Coat corn with olive oil, salt, and pepper; wrap in foil; roast at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes.
3. If using frozen corn, 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, whisk together:
2. Greek yogurt
3. Olive oil mayonnaise
4. Lime zest and juice
5. Chili powder
6. Smoked paprika
7. Garlic powder
8. Kosher salt
9. Black pepper

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine:
2. Cooled pasta,
3. Roasted or cooked corn,
4. Fresh cilantro,
5. Diced red onion,
6. Crumbled cotija cheese,
7. Chopped jalapeno.
8. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Serve

1. Hint: If preparing in advance, add cotija cheese and cilantro right before serving to keep them fresh.

Enjoy this flavorful Elote Pasta Salad as a refreshing addition to any meal!

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

This Elote Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Its creamy texture and vibrant flavors make it a versatile option for gatherings, picnics, or as a refreshing side at any meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

As a Main Dish

• A filling option for lunch or dinner, this pasta salad can stand alone as the main course due to its hearty ingredients.

At Potlucks

• This salad is perfect for potlucks! It’s easy to transport and sure to impress guests with its unique taste and beautiful presentation.

With Grilled Chicken

• Pairing this salad with grilled chicken adds extra protein and complements the flavors beautifully. Simply season the chicken with lime and spices for a cohesive meal.

As a Side Dish

• Serve this pasta salad alongside tacos, burritos, or grilled meats for a deliciously complete meal that balances flavors and textures.

In Meal Prep Containers

• For an easy lunch option, portion this salad into meal prep containers. It stays fresh in the fridge and makes for a quick grab-and-go meal throughout the week.

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

To ensure your Elote Pasta Salad reaches its full potential, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance flavor and texture while making preparation easier.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn kernels provide the best flavor. If possible, opt for in-season corn for superior sweetness.

• Let It Chill: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving helps meld the flavors together beautifully.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer less heat, remove all seeds from the jalapeno. For more spice, consider adding diced serrano peppers.

• Add More Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like basil or mint alongside cilantro for added freshness and complexity in flavor.

• Make It Ahead: This pasta salad can be made a day ahead of time, just remember to add fresh herbs right before serving to keep them vibrant.

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

When serving Elote Pasta Salad, pairing it with complementary side dishes can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Veggies: Charred vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers add a smoky flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the corn.
2. Mexican Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, tomatoes, and onions offers protein and fiber while complementing your pasta salad’s flavors.
3. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole provides richness that contrasts nicely with the crunchy texture of the pasta salad.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips paired with fresh salsa make for a fun appetizer alongside your main dish.
5. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring citrus fruits enhances palate cleansing between bites of the creamy pasta salad.
6. Corn on the Cob: Serving corn on the cob seasoned with lime juice and chili powder mirrors the flavors in your elote-inspired dish.
7. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice provide an interesting visual contrast while adding more veggies to your plate.
8. Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad dressed lightly with vinegar brings a refreshing crunch that balances out richer items on your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making an Elote Pasta Salad can be delightful, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the cooling step: Not allowing your pasta to cool after cooking can lead to a soggy salad. Always toss the pasta with olive oil and let it cool completely before mixing in other ingredients.

• Using too much dressing: Overdressing your salad can make it heavy and unappetizing. Start with a smaller amount of dressing and add more gradually until you reach your desired flavor.

• Ignoring ingredient freshness: Fresh ingredients such as cilantro and corn enhance flavor significantly. Use fresh herbs and, if possible, fresh corn off the cob for the best taste.

• Forgetting to adjust seasoning: Every ingredient has its own flavor profile. Taste your salad before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or spices as needed for a balanced flavor.

• Not customizing ingredients: Feel free to substitute or add ingredients according to your preference. Experimenting with different cheeses or vegetables can create a unique twist on this classic dish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• Freezing is not recommended for this salad due to the creamy dressing and fresh ingredients.
• If necessary, freeze components separately (like the corn), but consume within 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread pasta salad on a baking sheet 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 until warm. Stir between intervals.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through. This helps maintain texture without drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Elote Pasta Salad Recipe:

Can I use different types of cheese in this Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)?

Yes! While cotija is traditional, feel free to experiment with queso fresco, feta, or even parmesan cheese for different flavors.

How do I make this dish vegan-friendly?

To make a vegan version, substitute Greek yogurt with plant-based yogurt and use vegan mayonnaise instead of traditional mayonnaise.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare most of the salad ingredients ahead of time. Just wait to add the cheese and cilantro until right before serving to keep them fresh.

What should I serve with Elote Pasta Salad?

This pasta salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish. It also makes a great side dish for barbecues and picnics.

How long will leftovers last?

Your leftovers will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

This Elote Pasta Salad Recipe brings vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn into a delicious pasta dish that everyone will love. It’s versatile enough for potlucks or casual dinners at home. Feel free to customize it by adding extra veggies or adjusting spices according to your taste preferences. Enjoy making this refreshing dish!