Description
If you love Mexican street corn (elotes) and pasta, then this Elote Pasta Salad is a must-try!
Ingredients
For the Pasta Salad:
- 12 ounces pasta (rotini, penne, or shells)
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup cilantro, chopped
- ½ cup cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta cheese)
For the Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt & black pepper to taste
Optional Additions:
- 1 cup grilled chicken or shrimp (for added protein)
- 1 cup black beans (for a fiber boost)
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (for extra heat)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Corn
- Fresh Corn: Grill or roast the corn on an open flame until slightly charred, then cut off the kernels.
- Canned Corn: Drain and rinse well.
- Frozen Corn: Thaw and pat dry before using.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, lime zest, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Step 4: Assemble the Pasta Salad
In a large bowl, combine the pasta, corn, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, and cotija cheese. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.
Step 5: Chill & Serve
Let the pasta salad chill in the fridge for 15-30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with extra cotija cheese, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime before serving.
Notes
✔️ Use Fresh Lime Juice – It enhances the bright, tangy flavor.
✔️ Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Al dente pasta holds up better in the dressing.
✔️ Let It Chill Before Serving – This allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 190
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 8g
Keywords: Pasta Street Corn Salad