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–+ servings
Elote Pasta Salad

Creamy Elote Pasta Salad to Brighten Your Summer Days

Savor the refreshing taste of Elote Pasta Salad this summer—a delightful medley of smoky corn, zesty lime, and creamy goodness, perfect for gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Elbow pasta or rotini, or bowtie pasta
For the Salad
  • 2 cups Grilled corn canned or roasted corn works well
  • 1 small Red onion chopped
  • 1/2 cup Fresh cilantro or parsley as a substitute
  • 1 cup Cotija cheese or feta or queso fresco as alternatives
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for lighter option
  • 1/2 cup Sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 2 Tbsp Lime juice fresh juice preferred
  • 1 tsp Lime zest
  • 1 tsp Chili powder adjust to spice preference
  • 1/2 tsp Smoked paprika optional
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black pepper
  • 1 small Jalapeño diced, optional
Optional Add-ins
  • 1 cup Grilled chicken or shrimp or black beans
  • 1/4 cup Green onions sliced for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Medium Bowl
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. Grill fresh corn on medium heat for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally until charred. Cut kernels off the cob or use canned corn.
  3. Whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, lime zest, chili powder, minced garlic, and smoked paprika in a medium bowl. Season with salt and black pepper.
  4. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, corn, red onion, cilantro, and cotija cheese. Pour dressing over and toss gently.
  5. For best flavor, refrigerate for about 30 minutes. If short on time, serve immediately.
  6. Before serving, toss again and garnish with additional cotija cheese, cilantro, lime wedges, and chili powder.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Serve with grilled meats or as a standalone dish for summer gatherings. This salad tastes even better after sitting overnight.

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