Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Elote Pasta Salad combines the bold, tangy flavors of Mexican street corn (elote) with the creamy, comforting texture of pasta salad. It’s the perfect fusion dish for summer barbecues, picnics, or any time you want a zesty side that stands out. With roasted corn, cotija cheese, and a chili-lime dressing, every bite delivers a burst of flavor and texture.

ingredients

Elote Pasta Salad (Street Corn Pasta Salad)

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

pasta (elbow, rotini, or bowtie)corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)mayonaisesour creamcotija cheesefresh cilantrolime juicechili powdergarlic powdersalt and pepperred onion (optional)jalapeño (optional)

directions

Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water, then set aside.

If using fresh corn, grill or sauté it until lightly charred. If using frozen or canned corn, heat it in a pan for a roasted effect.

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

Add the cooked pasta and corn to the bowl. Mix well until coated with the dressing.

Fold in crumbled cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and optional diced red onion and jalapeño for extra flavor.

Chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Garnish with more cotija, cilantro, and a sprinkle of chili powder before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6-8 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 10 minutesChilling time: 30 minutesTotal time: 55 minutes

Variations

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter option.

Add diced avocado for a creamy, fresh twist.

Swap cotija for feta cheese if needed.

Include black beans or grilled chicken for a heartier dish.

Add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

storage/reheating

Store Elote Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Best served cold or at room temperature.Do not freeze, as the dressing may separate and affect texture.

FAQs

Can I make Elote Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes, it’s even better after chilling for a few hours or overnight.

Is this salad spicy?

It has mild heat from the chili powder and optional jalapeño—adjust to your preference.

Can I use canned corn?

Yes, but grilling or roasting it adds more flavor.

What type of pasta works best?

Short shapes like rotini, elbow, or bowtie hold the dressing well.

Can I make it vegan?

Use vegan mayo, dairy-free sour cream, and a plant-based cheese alternative.

How do I keep the pasta from getting soggy?

Rinse with cold water after boiling and don’t overcook it.

Is cotija cheese necessary?

It adds authenticity, but feta is a good substitute.

Can I add meat to this dish?

Yes, grilled chicken or bacon both work great.

How long does it last in the fridge?

Up to 4 days in a sealed container.

Can I skip the mayo?

Yes, substitute with more sour cream or a blend of Greek yogurt and lime juice.

Conclusion

Elote Pasta Salad is a flavorful twist on a classic side dish, marrying the street food charm of Mexican corn with creamy pasta goodness. It’s a crowd-pleaser that adds color and zest to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a cookout or looking for a vibrant potluck dish, this salad delivers big flavor with minimal effort.