Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad (Elote Pasta Salad)

A creamy, smoky, tangy pasta salad inspired by classic Mexican street corn (elote). Perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or meal prep!

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📝 Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

For the pasta salad:

• 12 oz (340g) pasta (rotini, penne, or bowtie)

• 3 cups corn (fresh grilled, canned & drained, or frozen & thawed)

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• ½ small red onion, finely diced

• 1 jalapeño, seeded & minced (optional for heat)

• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro

• ¾ cup crumbled Cotija cheese (or feta as substitute)

For the creamy dressing:

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)

• 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)

• 1 teaspoon lime zest (optional but recommended)

• 1–2 teaspoons chili powder

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt & black pepper to taste

Optional toppings:

• Extra Cotija cheese

• Tajín seasoning

• Sliced green onions

• Extra cilantro

• Lime wedges

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🔥 Instructions

1. Cook the pasta
   Boil in salted water according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.

2. Prepare the corn

   • If using fresh corn: Grill until slightly charred, then slice off kernels.

   • If using canned/frozen: Drain well and pat dry.
     (Charring the corn in a skillet adds great flavor!)

3. Make the dressing
   In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, zest, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

4. Assemble the salad
   Add pasta, corn, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and Cotija cheese to the dressing. Toss until evenly coated.

5. Chill
   Refrigerate for at least 30–60 minutes before serving for best flavor.

6. Serve
   Top with extra Cotija, Tajín, and a squeeze of fresh lime.

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💡 Tips for Best Flavor

• Grill or char the corn for authentic street corn taste.

• Add diced avocado right before serving for creaminess.

• Make it protein-packed: Add grilled chicken or black beans.

• Store in the fridge up to 3 days.

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If you’d like, I can also give you a spicy version, a lighter healthy version, or a make-ahead party-size version.