Name: Easy Elote Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta (rotini, penne, or shells); 2 cups corn (grilled, roasted, or frozen and thawed); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt; 2 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed); 1/2 tsp chili powder; 1/4 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp salt (more to taste); 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta); 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Optional: 1 jalapeño, finely diced

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This Easy Elote Pasta Salad is my creamy, tangy twist on the classic Mexican street corn dish known as elote. With charred corn, tender pasta, cotija cheese, and a chili-lime dressing, it's a side dish that steals the show at BBQs, summer cookouts, or even a casual weeknight dinner. Every bite brings together bold flavors and a satisfying texture that keeps me coming back for more.

Easy Elote Pasta Salad

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

12 oz pasta (rotini, penne, or shells work great)

2 cups corn (grilled, roasted, or frozen and thawed)

½ cup mayonnaise

½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

2 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)

½ teaspoon chili powder

¼ teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon salt (more to taste)

¼ teaspoon black pepper

½ cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta if unavailable)

¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Optional: 1 jalapeño, finely diced for heat

Directions

I cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Then I drain it, rinse it under cold water, and set it aside.

I char the corn in a skillet or on the grill until it’s lightly browned for that smoky depth of flavor. I let it cool slightly.

In a large bowl, I whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

I add the cooked pasta, charred corn, cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and jalapeño if I’m using it. Then I toss everything until it’s well coated.

I chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld beautifully.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a more filling main dish.

For a lighter or gluten-free version, I use quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.

A sprinkle of Tajin right before serving gives it an extra tangy, spicy kick.

If I want it cheesier, I mix in a bit of shredded cheddar with the cotija.

When I’m out of cilantro, I’ve used green onions for a different but tasty twist.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making it even better the next day. I don’t recommend reheating this dish, as it’s meant to be served chilled or at room temperature. If the pasta absorbs too much dressing in the fridge, I just stir in a spoonful of mayo or lime juice before serving.

FAQs

How can I make this pasta salad spicier?

I add more jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat. A pinch of cayenne in the dressing also works well.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I often make it a day ahead. It holds up great in the fridge and the flavors develop more over time.

What type of pasta works best?

I usually use rotini, penne, or shells because they hold the creamy dressing well. Any short pasta will work.

Can I use canned corn instead of grilled or roasted?

Yes, I can use canned corn if I’m in a rush. I still like to char it in a skillet for extra flavor, but it’s optional.

Is there a dairy-free version?

To make it dairy-free, I swap the mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan alternatives and use a dairy-free cheese or skip it altogether.

Conclusion

This Easy Elote Pasta Salad is a flavor-packed side that’s perfect for warm weather and gatherings. I love how easy it is to make, how customizable it can be, and how much everyone enjoys it. Whether I’m prepping it for a party or tossing it together for a simple weeknight meal, it never disappoints.

Recipe:

Easy Elote Pasta Salad

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Easy Elote Pasta Salad is a creamy, tangy twist on Mexican street corn, featuring charred corn, tender pasta, cotija cheese, and a chili-lime dressing. It's perfect for BBQs, cookouts, or as a flavorful side dish for any meal.

Instructions

Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.
Char the corn in a skillet or on the grill until lightly browned. Let it cool slightly.
In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Add the cooked pasta, charred corn, cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and jalapeño (if using) to the bowl. Toss until well coated.
Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.