Creamy Elote Pasta Salad: The Ultimate Mexican Street Corn Side Dish

Prepare to fall in love with this incredibly flavorful and vibrant Elote Pasta Salad, a delightful twist on the popular Mexican street corn, or “Elote.” This recipe brings together the smoky sweetness of charred corn, the salty tang of cotija cheese, and a rich, creamy dressing, all tossed with perfectly al dente pasta. It’s a dish that’s not only easy to make but also bursts with a unique blend of tangy, spicy, and savory notes, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, planning a picnic, or simply looking for a refreshing side dish to complement your weeknight dinner, this Elote Pasta Salad is your answer. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses, such as oven-baked BBQ chicken or grilled meats, offering a burst of fresh flavors that light up any meal.

You might have seen this viral sensation trending across social media platforms like TikTok, and its popularity is no accident. This pasta salad isn’t just visually appealing; it delivers on taste with every single bite. It’s super easy to assemble, requires minimal cooking, and is perfectly balanced with a zesty kick, a subtle spice, and a luxurious creaminess that makes it irresistible. As the warmer months approach, this Elote Pasta Salad is destined to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

The Magic of Elote Pasta Salad

Elote, or Mexican street corn, is a beloved culinary delight renowned for its smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors. Traditionally served on the cob, it’s slathered with mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and a squeeze of lime. This pasta salad takes all those iconic flavors and transforms them into a convenient, fork-friendly dish that’s perfect for sharing. The key to its irresistible taste lies in a few crucial elements:

• Charred Corn: This isn’t just about cooking; it’s about developing deep, caramelized flavors and a slightly smoky aroma that elevates the entire dish. Whether you use fresh, frozen, or canned corn, taking the time to char it properly makes all the difference.
• Creamy Dressing: A luscious blend of mayonnaise, sour cream, and lime juice forms the base of this dressing, providing a rich and tangy backdrop for the other ingredients.
• Authentic Spices: Granulated garlic, chili powder, and a touch of cayenne pepper infuse the salad with warmth and a gentle heat, reminiscent of classic Mexican street food. Tajin, a popular chili-lime seasoning, can also be used for an extra layer of authentic flavor.
• Cotija Cheese: This salty, crumbly Mexican cheese is non-negotiable for achieving that signature Elote taste. Its unique texture and salty profile perfectly complement the sweetness of the corn and the creaminess of the dressing.

This pasta salad is more than just a side; it’s a celebration of flavors that are both comforting and exciting. It’s incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences, making it a perfect addition to any meal.

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

To create the most delicious Elote Pasta Salad, understanding each ingredient and its role is key. Here’s a deeper dive into what you’ll need and how you can adapt the recipe to your pantry or taste preferences. (For exact quantities and step-by-step instructions, please refer to the recipe card below.)

• Corn: The star of the show!
  • Fresh Corn: If corn is in season, fresh corn on the cob grilled or pan-charred yields the best flavor and texture. Simply cut the kernels off the cob after charring.
  • Frozen Corn: A convenient option. Thaw completely before charring to ensure it browns nicely and doesn’t just steam.
  • Canned Corn: Drain and rinse well. While it won’t have the same crispness as fresh or frozen, it can still be charred in a skillet for good flavor. Pat it dry thoroughly before charring to help it caramelize.
  • Charring Tip: Use a hot skillet (cast iron works wonders) with a bit of butter or oil. Stir occasionally until kernels are lightly browned and slightly smoky. This step is crucial for authentic elote flavor!
• Pasta: The vehicle for all the deliciousness.
  • I used small pasta shells, which are excellent for catching and holding the creamy dressing.
  • Substitutions: Any short-shaped pasta will work beautifully. Consider using elbow macaroni, rotini, fusilli, farfalle (bow-tie), or ditalini. The goal is a shape that can easily scoop up the corn and dressing.
  • Cooking Tip: Always cook your pasta al dente according to package directions in well-salted boiling water. Overcooked pasta can become mushy in a cold salad.
• Lime: For that essential zesty tang.
  • Freshly squeezed lime juice is paramount for balancing the richness of the dressing and brightening all the flavors.
  • Substitutions: Lemon juice can be used as a substitute if lime isn’t available, but lime truly gives it that authentic Mexican flair. Consider adding a pinch of lime zest for an extra aromatic boost.
• Cotija Cheese: The distinct salty, crumbly element.
  • Cotija is a firm, crumbly, and salty Mexican cheese that is fundamental to Elote. It doesn’t melt easily, making it perfect for salads.
  • Substitutions: If cotija is hard to find, good alternatives include:
    • Feta Cheese: Offers a similar salty and crumbly texture.
    • Parmesan Cheese: Provides a sharp, salty flavor, though the texture is different.
    • Goat Cheese (Chèvre): A creamy goat cheese could offer a tangy, soft contrast, but it’s a significant flavor shift.
    • Queso Fresco: Another Mexican cheese, softer and less salty than cotija, but a good option if you prefer a milder cheese.
• Spices: The heart of the flavor profile.
  • I opted for granulated garlic, chili powder, and a touch of cayenne pepper for a classic, robust flavor.
  • Customization: Feel free to adjust the spice levels to your preference. If you’re not a fan of heat, simply omit the cayenne pepper.
  • Other great additions: A pinch of smoked paprika can add depth, and ground cumin can enhance the savory notes.
  • Tajin: As mentioned, Tajin Clasico seasoning is an excellent alternative or addition. It’s a blend of chili peppers, sea salt, and dehydrated lime juice, perfectly embodying the Elote spirit.
• Mayo & Sour Cream: For ultimate creaminess.
  • This combination creates a rich, smooth, and tangy dressing.
  • Substitutions: For a lighter dressing, you can use Greek yogurt or a blend of Greek yogurt and mayo. Mexican crema is also a fantastic authentic substitute for sour cream, offering a slightly tangier and thinner consistency.
• Scallions & Cilantro: Freshness and color.
  • Finely sliced scallions (green onions) provide a mild oniony bite and vibrant color.
  • Freshly minced cilantro adds a burst of herbal freshness that is quintessential in Mexican-inspired dishes. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, fresh parsley can be a mild substitute, though the flavor profile will shift.
• Butter: For charring the corn.
  • Butter not only helps char the corn but also adds a rich, savory depth to the kernels. A neutral oil like avocado or canola oil can also be used.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.
  • Season generously throughout the cooking process. Taste the dressing before mixing with pasta, and adjust after the salad is fully combined.

Expert Tips for the Best Elote Pasta Salad

Achieving a truly outstanding Elote Pasta Salad involves a few simple tricks that can elevate your dish from good to unforgettable:

• Don’t Skip the Charring: This is arguably the most important step for authentic Elote flavor. High heat in a skillet or on a grill creates beautifully caramelized, smoky kernels that are bursting with sweetness. Ensure your pan is hot before adding the corn for the best results.
• Cool Everything Down: For a truly refreshing pasta salad, ensure both the pasta and the charred corn are completely cooled before mixing them with the creamy dressing. Warm ingredients can cause the dressing to become watery or affect its texture. You can even chill the dressing for a few minutes before combining.
• Al Dente Pasta is Key: Overcooked pasta turns mushy in cold salads. Cook your pasta just until it’s al dente – firm to the bite – to maintain its structure and provide a pleasant texture. Rinsing the cooked pasta with cold water immediately after draining stops the cooking process.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: The flavors will meld and deepen as the salad chills. Always taste the dressing before combining it with the pasta, and then taste the finished salad just before serving. You might need an extra pinch of salt, a grind of pepper, or another squeeze of lime juice to bring everything into perfect balance.
• Pre-Mix Your Dressing: Whisking all the dressing ingredients together in a separate bowl ensures an even distribution of flavors and a consistently creamy texture before it coats the pasta and corn.

Storing and Reviving Leftovers

Elote Pasta Salad is wonderful enjoyed fresh, but it also makes fantastic leftovers. If you plan to store it for later, cover it tightly and refrigerate. The pasta will absorb some of the dressing over time, which can make the salad seem less creamy upon serving.

Top Tip for Leftovers: Before serving chilled leftovers, add an extra tablespoon or two of mayonnaise (or sour cream/Mexican crema) to re-introduce that desired creaminess. Stir it in well, then taste and adjust with additional salt, pepper, or lime juice as needed. This simple step will restore its fresh-tastine.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Elote Pasta Salad is incredibly versatile and makes a fantastic addition to almost any meal. It’s perfect for casual gatherings, holiday potlucks, or as a vibrant side to your everyday dinners. Here are some ideas for how to serve it and how to adapt it to your liking:

Serving Suggestions:

• BBQ & Grilled Meats: As mentioned, it’s a match made in heaven with baked BBQ chicken, grilled steak, pork chops, or ribs.
• Taco & Burrito Bowls: Serve a generous scoop alongside your favorite taco or burrito bowls for an added burst of flavor and texture.
• Picnics & Potlucks: Its vibrant colors and robust flavors make it an ideal dish for outdoor events. It travels well and is always a hit.
• Fish & Shrimp: The zesty lime and creamy dressing complement grilled fish or spicy shrimp beautifully.
• As a Main Dish: For a lighter meal, you can enjoy a larger portion of this pasta salad on its own, perhaps with some added protein.
• Garnishes: A sprinkle of extra crumbled cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, a wedge of lime for squeezing, or a drizzle of hot sauce (like Valentina or Tapatío) can enhance the presentation and flavor.

Creative Variations:

• Add Protein: For a more substantial meal, consider adding cooked and cooled grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, black beans, or even crispy bacon bits for extra flavor and crunch.
• Extra Veggies: Boost the nutritional value and texture by incorporating finely diced red bell peppers, red onion (soaked in cold water to reduce sharpness), or fresh avocado cubes just before serving. Diced jalapeños or serrano peppers can also be added for more heat.
• Different Cheeses: While cotija is traditional, experiment with other cheeses like crumbled queso fresco, or a sharp cheddar for a different profile.
• Spicier Kick: If you love heat, increase the cayenne pepper, add a pinch of smoked paprika, or finely dice some fresh jalapeño directly into the dressing. A dash of your favorite hot sauce is also a quick way to add spice.
• Herbal Twist: Try adding a bit of fresh parsley or even a touch of finely chopped chives alongside the cilantro for a subtle change in fresh herbaceous notes.
• Smoky Flavor: For an even deeper smoky flavor, you can add a tiny drop of liquid smoke to the dressing, or grill your corn on an open flame.

More Delicious Pasta Salad Recipes

If you’re a fan of flavorful and easy-to-make pasta salads, be sure to explore these other fantastic options from my kitchen:

• Lobster Pasta Salad
• Creamy Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
• Greek Pasta Salad
• Deviled Egg Pasta Salad

No ratings yet

Elote Pasta Salad

By
Julie Maestre

This elote pasta salad, also known as Mexican street corn salad, is loaded with charred corn, cotija cheese, and a creamy dressing.

Prep:
10 mins

Cook:
10 mins

Total:
20 mins

Servings:
6

Save Recipe
Pin Recipe
Rate Recipe
Print Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 lb pasta shells , cooked in boiling salted water till al dente
• ½ cup plus 3 tbsps mayo
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ lime, juiced
• 2 teaspoons granulated garlic
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper , optional
• 1 ½ cups corn
• ½ cup cotija cheese
• 3 scallions, finely sliced
• 2 tablespoons cilantro, finely minced
• 3 tablespoons butter
• salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Add the butter to a skillet and allow it to melt. Once the skillet is hot, add the corn and cook it for 6-7 minutes while stirring occasionally until nicely charred. Remove from the skillet and let it cool completely.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayo, sour cream, granulated garlic, chili powder, cayenne pepper (if using), and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Gently fold in the cooled charred corn, the cooled pasta shells, cotija cheese, sliced scallions, and minced cilantro. Toss until all ingredients are well combined and coated with the creamy dressing. Check for seasoning one last time and enjoy immediately or chill for later!

Notes

If you’re not eating this right away and plan to put it in the fridge, cover it well. Before serving, add a spoon of mayo (or sour cream) to make it creamy again because it can dry out as the pasta absorbs the dressing. Then taste it and add more salt and pepper if needed.

Nutrition

Calories: 573kcal |
Carbohydrates: 68g |
Protein: 14g |
Fat: 28g |
Saturated Fat: 10g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 9g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 6g |
Trans Fat: 0.3g |
Cholesterol: 45mg |
Sodium: 321mg |
Potassium: 329mg |
Fiber: 4g |
Sugar: 5g |
Vitamin A: 616IU |
Vitamin C: 5mg |
Calcium: 109mg |
Iron: 2mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Author:
Julie Maestre

Prep Time:
10 minutes

Cook Time:
10 minutes

Total Time:
20 minutes

Course:
Entree, Side Dish

Cuisine:
Tex Mex

Servings:
6

Calories:
573

Keyword:
elote pasta salad

We hope you enjoy making and sharing this delightful Elote Pasta Salad as much as we do. Its combination of creamy texture, smoky corn, and spicy kick makes it a truly memorable dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Don’t forget to experiment with the variations and make it your own!