Elote Pasta Salad Recipe

Introduction

Elote Pasta Salad is a delightful fusion of creamy pasta salad and the vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn, known as elote. This dish combines tender pasta with the smoky, charred flavors of corn, creamy mayonnaise, tangy lime, and the perfect balance of spices, creating a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, and casual gatherings. Inspired by the popular Mexican street food, Elote Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleasing side dish that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful. Whether served as a standalone dish or paired with your favorite grilled meats, it’s sure to be a hit at any occasion.

With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, this recipe offers the best of both worlds: the rich creaminess of pasta salad and the bold, zesty taste of elote. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this dish comes together effortlessly and will make a lasting impression on your guests.

Why You’ll Love Elote Pasta Salad

• Vibrant Flavors: This pasta salad is packed with the bold, tangy flavors of elote—sweet, smoky, and spicy corn paired with a creamy dressing that hits all the right notes.
• Perfectly Creamy: The mayonnaise and sour cream dressing coats the pasta and corn beautifully, making every bite rich and satisfying.
• Unique Twist on a Classic: If you love traditional pasta salad, Elote Pasta Salad takes it to the next level by adding the zesty, street-food-inspired flavors of Mexican corn.
• Simple Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you can prepare this dish in no time, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or large gatherings.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the heat level, add extra vegetables, or even include proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp for a more substantial meal.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 6-8 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 350-400 calories per serving, depending on portion sizes and ingredient variations.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 22-24g
• Carbohydrates: 35-40g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6-8g

Ingredients

For the Elote Pasta Salad:

• 12 oz elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta
• 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 lime, zested and juiced
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 1/3 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta cheese as a substitute)
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional, adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Special Equipment

Although Elote Pasta Salad doesn’t require specialized equipment, a few basic tools will make the preparation process easier:

1. Large Pot for Boiling Pasta: A big pot for boiling the pasta is essential to ensure that there’s enough room for the pasta to cook evenly.
2. Colander or Strainer: After boiling the pasta, a colander will help drain it efficiently without losing any pasta.
3. Skillet for Charring Corn: If using fresh corn, a skillet will allow you to achieve that signature charred, smoky flavor that gives the dish its distinct taste.
4. Mixing Bowls: You’ll need at least two bowls: one for mixing the pasta and dressing, and another for tossing the charred corn with the seasoning.
5. Measuring Spoons and Cups: Accurate measurements are key for balancing the flavors, especially when adding spices and dressing ingredients.
6. Sharp Knife: A knife for chopping cilantro, parsley, or any other garnishes or veggies you may add to the salad.
7. Serving Dish: A large, shallow serving dish is ideal for presenting the pasta salad and allowing for easy mixing.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling the pasta in a large pot of salted water. Cook it according to the package instructions, making sure to cook the pasta until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside to cool.

To prevent the pasta from sticking together, you can toss it with a small drizzle of olive oil once it’s drained. This also helps the pasta from absorbing too much of the dressing later on.

2. Char the Corn

While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the corn kernels (whether using fresh or frozen corn) and cook them for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is lightly charred and golden brown. This step adds a smoky, roasted flavor to the corn, which is a hallmark of traditional elote.

Once the corn is charred, remove it from the skillet and set it aside to cool.

3. Prepare the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, lime zest, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and hot sauce (if using). Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. The lime juice adds a tangy brightness, while the chili powder and smoked paprika contribute a deep, smoky spice.

The creamy base of the dressing provides the perfect complement to the smoky corn and the pasta.

4. Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, charred corn, and the prepared dressing. Toss everything together until the pasta and corn are evenly coated with the dressing.

Next, fold in the crumbled cotija cheese and fresh cilantro. The cotija cheese adds a salty, tangy bite, and the cilantro brings a refreshing, herbaceous flavor. If you like, you can also stir in some chopped fresh parsley for added color and flavor.

5. Chill the Salad

Once everything is mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the salad allows the flavors to meld together and ensures that the pasta absorbs some of the creamy dressing, making the salad even more delicious.

6. Garnish and Serve

After chilling, remove the salad from the refrigerator and give it a final toss. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more lime juice or salt if needed. Garnish with extra crumbled cotija cheese and fresh cilantro before serving.

Tips for Perfect Elote Pasta Salad

• Use Fresh Corn for the Best Flavor: While frozen corn works fine, fresh corn provides a more authentic, juicy sweetness. Grilled or charred corn will bring out the best flavors in this salad.
• Chill the Salad: The flavors of the pasta salad improve significantly when given time to chill, so don’t rush this step. If possible, let the salad sit for at least 1 hour before serving.
• Adjust the Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the chili powder and hot sauce to your personal spice preference. If you like it spicier, add more hot sauce or some finely chopped jalapeños.
• Make it a Meal: You can easily turn this pasta salad into a more substantial dish by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even black beans for extra protein.
• Don’t Skip the Cotija: Cotija cheese adds a distinct flavor to this salad. If you can’t find cotija, crumbled feta cheese works as a good substitute.

Variations of Elote Pasta Salad

• Grilled Chicken Elote Pasta Salad: Add grilled chicken breast or thighs to the pasta salad to make it a heartier dish. Simply cube the grilled chicken and toss it into the salad for added protein.
• Shrimp Elote Pasta Salad: For a seafood twist, add grilled or sautéed shrimp. The sweet, smoky shrimp pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the corn and creamy dressing.
• Vegan Elote Pasta Salad: To make this recipe vegan, substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan versions, such as cashew cream or a plant-based mayo. Cotija cheese can be replaced with crumbled vegan cheese or omitted entirely.
• Roasted Veggie Elote Pasta Salad: Add roasted vegetables, like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes, to enhance the flavor and make the salad even more colorful and nutritious.
• Spicy Jalapeño Elote Pasta Salad: For extra heat, finely chop fresh jalapeños and mix them into the salad. You can also top the salad with some thinly sliced jalapeños for an added spicy crunch.

Storage and Shelf Life

Elote Pasta Salad is best served fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may become a little drier over time as the pasta absorbs the dressing, so consider adding a little extra mayo or sour cream when serving leftovers.

For longer storage, you can freeze the salad, but be aware that the texture of the pasta may change upon thawing. For the best flavor, it’s recommended to enjoy it within a few days.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Elote Pasta Salad

Elote Pasta Salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes:

• Grilled Meats: This pasta salad is a perfect side for grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp. The smoky flavors of the grilled meats complement the corn and spices in the pasta salad.
• Mexican Street Tacos: Serve this pasta salad alongside your favorite tacos—beef, chicken, or fish. The creamy pasta salad balances the spices and adds a fresh contrast to the tacos.
• Guacamole and Chips: A side of homemade guacamole and tortilla chips pairs wonderfully with Elote Pasta Salad, enhancing the Mexican-inspired flavors.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing fruit salad with citrus fruits like oranges, pineapple, and berries can offer a nice contrast to the richness of the pasta salad.

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Conclusion

Elote Pasta Salad brings together the best of both worlds: the creamy comfort of pasta salad and the bold, smoky flavors of Mexican street corn. It’s the perfect side dish for any gathering, offering a unique twist on a classic favorite. Whether you’re serving it at a picnic, barbecue, or simply craving a refreshing side for dinner, this pasta salad will surely impress. With its rich flavors, easy preparation, and versatility, it’s bound to become a new go-to recipe in your collection. Enjoy the bright, zesty goodness of Elote Pasta Salad and elevate your next meal!