Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Elote Pasta Salad

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: simplemealsbykim
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Boiling, Mixing
  • Cuisine: Mexican-American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Elote Pasta Salad is a vibrant and creamy fusion of Mexican street corn and pasta salad, featuring charred corn, tangy lime, and a spicy, cheesy dressing.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 12 oz rotini or fusilli pasta
  • 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water, then set aside.
  2. If using fresh corn, grill or char it in a pan until slightly blackened. Let cool.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  4. Add the cooked pasta, corn, green onions, jalapeño (if using), and cilantro to the bowl. Toss to coat evenly.
  5. Gently fold in the crumbled cotija cheese.
  6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.
  7. Serve chilled, garnished with extra cilantro and cotija if desired.

Notes

  • You can substitute feta cheese if cotija is unavailable.
  • Adjust spice level by adding more or less chili powder or jalapeño.
  • This salad can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 380mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg