Discover the ultimate elote pasta salad recipe! Creamy, zesty, and loaded with bold Mexican flavors, it’s the perfect side dish for any gathering

Why you will love this recipe

If you’re craving a dish that combines creamy comfort with the bold flavors of Mexican street corn, this elote pasta salad is the perfect choice. Packed with zesty lime, smoky spices, and sweet corn, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser for BBQs, potlucks, or weeknight dinners. It’s a versatile side dish that pairs well with grilled meats or stands out as a star on its own. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this salad offers all the deliciousness of elote in a fresh, hearty pasta twist. Perfect for busy schedules or special occasions, it’s a must-try for anyone who loves vibrant flavors.

At WikiDishes, food is about more than just eating—it’s about bringing people together. That’s why this elote pasta salad holds a special place in our hearts. Inspired by the vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn, this recipe reminds us of warm summer evenings spent sharing meals with loved ones. The creamy dressing, smoky spices, and fresh bursts of lime bring a sense of nostalgia and joy to every bite. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue, a potluck with friends, or a simple family dinner, this dish sparks connection and celebration, reminding us that food is a universal love language.

How to Make the Best Elote Pasta Salad

Recipe by tmaneCuisine: Mexican, AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

250

kcal

Ingredients

For the Pasta Salad:
12 oz elbow macaroni or small pasta of choice
2 cups corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
1 cup diced red bell pepper
1/2 cup chopped cilantro
1/4 cup diced red onion
1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta as a substitute)
For the Dressing:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Cook the Pasta: Fill a big pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Prepare the pasta as directed on the package until it reaches an al dente texture. Drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water to halt the cooking process. Set aside.
Prepare the Corn: If using fresh corn, cook the kernels in a skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until lightly charred. For canned or frozen corn, simply drain and pat dry.
Mix the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, corn, diced red bell pepper, cilantro, red onion, and crumbled cotija cheese. Toss gently to combine.
Make the Dressing: In a different small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper with a whisk. Adjust seasonings to taste.
Combine and Serve: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture. Toss until everything is evenly coated. Refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes prior to serving to allow the flavors to combine. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Notes

Variations: Add diced avocado, black beans, or grilled chicken for a heartier salad.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving as the dressing may settle.
Substitutions: Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a lighter version. Substitute cotija cheese with parmesan or feta if needed.
Serving Suggestions: Pair this salad with grilled meats, tacos, or as a picnic side dish.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Serving Size: 1/6 of the recipe (150g)

Calories: 250

Macronutrients:

Total Fat

12g

15%

Saturated Fat

20%

Trans Fat

–

Cholesterol

15mg

Sodium

450mg

20%

Total Carbohydrate

30g

11%

Dietary Fiber

Sugars

–

Protein

12%

Key Vitamins and Minerals:

Vitamin D

0mcg

Calcium

80mg

Iron

1.2mg

Potassium

200mg

Additional Notes

This elote pasta salad is a flavorful and creamy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The cotija cheese adds calcium, while the fresh corn and bell peppers contribute essential vitamins and antioxidants for a balanced side dish.

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs.

Please note: The nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and preparation methods used.

FAQ

Can I make elote pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad tastes even better after chilling for a few hours. Make it up to one day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, shells, or rotini work best as they hold the dressing and ingredients well.
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen corn is a convenient option. Just thaw and dry it before adding to the salad. Lightly charring it in a skillet can enhance its flavor.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Not with regular pasta. However, you can use gluten-free pasta to make the dish suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
How do I keep the pasta salad from drying out?
Ensure the pasta is fully coated with dressing before chilling. Add a splash of lime juice or a bit more dressing before serving if it feels dry.
Can I make this salad spicier?
Yes! Add finely chopped jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a drizzle of hot sauce to the dressing for extra heat.

Conclusion

We hope this elote pasta salad becomes a new favorite in your recipe collection! Its bold flavors and creamy texture make it the perfect dish for any occasion, from casual family meals to festive gatherings. If you enjoyed this recipe, why not share it with your friends and spread the deliciousness? Don’t forget to tag us on social media—we’d love to see your creations and hear your thoughts. Follow us for more easy, flavorful recipes that bring joy to your table. Let’s keep cooking and creating memories together—grab your ingredients and make this amazing dish today!