If you’re craving a bold and creamy twist on traditional pasta salad, this Elote Pasta Salad is your new go-to recipe. Inspired by the vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn, this dish combines charred sweet corn, tender pasta, and a tangy, creamy dressing that’s loaded with lime juice, chili powder, and cotija cheese. It’s the perfect side dish for summer cookouts, casual family dinners, or meal prep for the week.
Unlike your average pasta salad, this version brings that irresistible sweet-smoky heat, a pop of freshness from cilantro, and a creamy richness that ties everything together. Whether served warm or cold, Elote Pasta Salad delivers bold flavor in every bite and is incredibly easy to make. Get ready to impress everyone at the table with this flavorful fusion of comfort food and street food favorite!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Elote Pasta Salad isn’t just another side dish—it’s a flavor-packed crowd-pleaser that checks all the boxes for convenience, taste, and versatility. This is why you need to add this to your regular meal plan:
- Bold, Creamy Flavor – Inspired by classic Mexican street corn (elote), this pasta salad brings together creamy mayo and sour cream, zesty lime, smoky chili powder, and salty cotija cheese. Every bite is rich, tangy, and satisfying.
- Simple Ingredients, Big Impact – Most of the ingredients are pantry staples or easy to find. With corn, pasta, and a handful of seasonings, you can create a dish that tastes like it came from a restaurant.
- Perfect for Make-Ahead – This salad tastes even better after it chills and the flavors meld. It’s ideal for prepping the day before parties, picnics, or potlucks.
- Customizable for Any Diet – Swap regular pasta with gluten-free, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, or toss in grilled chicken or black beans for added protein.
- Great Hot or Cold – Whether you serve it fresh off the stove or chilled from the fridge, this salad delivers comfort and freshness in one bite.
Whether you’re new to elote or already obsessed, this dish brings comfort food and Mexican street food together in a way you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make this flavorful Elote Pasta Salad. The ingredients are simple but come together for a bold and creamy finish.
Pasta Salad Base:
- 8 oz pasta (elbow, rotini, or bowtie work great)
- 2 cups corn kernels (grilled, roasted, frozen, or canned; drained if needed)
- ½ cup red onion, finely diced
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese (or substitute with feta if needed)
Creamy Elote Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added smokiness)
- 1 clove garlic, minced or finely grated
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 jalapeño, diced (for heat)
- 1 cup diced grilled chicken or black beans (for added protein)
- ¼ cup chopped green onions (for extra flavor and color)
These ingredients combine to form a creamy, tangy, and smoky salad with the familiar comfort of pasta and the vibrant twist of Mexican street corn. Up next: how to bring it all together with ease.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to bring your Elote Pasta Salad to life. From boiling the pasta to tossing it all together, it’s a quick and satisfying process.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil.
Add pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions (usually about 8–10 minutes).
Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and cool it down. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Corn
- Grilled corn: If using fresh corn on the cob, grill it over medium-high heat until lightly charred. After the corn is cooked, let it cool slightly before cutting the kernels from the cob.
- Frozen corn: Sauté in a dry skillet over high heat until golden spots appear. Let cool.
- Canned corn: Drain well and pat dry with a paper towel to avoid excess moisture.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- Mayonnaise
- Sour cream
- Lime juice
- Lime zest
- Chili powder
- Smoked paprika (if using)
- Garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, corn, red onion, cilantro, and cotija cheese.
Pour the dressing over the mixture.
Gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Chill (Optional)
For the most delicious result, cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
You can serve it immediately if you’re short on time—it will still taste great.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss.
Top with extra cotija, cilantro, lime wedges, or a sprinkle of chili powder for added flair.
Pro Tips and Variations
Take your Elote Pasta Salad to the next level with these helpful tips and tasty variations. Whether you’re adjusting for dietary needs or just want to switch things up, this section has you covered.
Pro Tips for Perfect Elote Pasta Salad
1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta
Cook the pasta until just al dente. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy once it absorbs the dressing.
2. Char the Corn for Extra Flavor
Using grilled or fire-roasted corn adds that authentic elote taste with a slight smoky edge. If using frozen or canned, a quick sear in a hot skillet helps mimic the char.
3. Cool the Pasta Completely
Rinsing the pasta under cold water stops the cooking process and prevents it from becoming gummy.
4. Use Fresh Lime Juice
Bottled lime juice lacks the bright zing that fresh-squeezed juice offers. This simple step significantly enhances the flavor of the dish.
5. Chill Before Serving (If Possible)
Letting the salad sit for 30 minutes in the fridge enhances the flavor as the ingredients meld together.
Tasty Variations
1. Add Protein
Want to make it a full meal? Stir in diced grilled chicken, shrimp, crispy bacon, or even black beans for extra protein.
2. Make It Spicy
Add chopped jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper if you like a kick.
3. Lighten It Up
Swap the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or a mix of yogurt and light sour cream to reduce fat while keeping it creamy.
4. Cheese Substitutes
Can’t find cotija cheese? Try crumbled feta or queso fresco for a similar salty, crumbly texture.
5. Make It Vegan
Use vegan mayo and dairy-free sour cream, and skip or sub the cheese with a plant-based version.
6. Swap the Pasta Shape
Rotini, bowtie, or fusilli are great alternatives that hold onto the dressing well. Gluten-free or whole wheat pasta also work perfectly.
Serving Suggestions
Elote Pasta Salad is a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with just about anything you’re cooking up—especially during spring and summer. Whether you’re grilling, meal prepping, or hosting a potluck, here’s how to serve this creamy, flavor-packed salad for maximum satisfaction.
Serve It Cold or Slightly Chilled
Elote Pasta Salad is best served cold or lightly chilled. Letting it rest in the fridge for 30–60 minutes before serving allows the flavors to fully blend and the dressing to thicken slightly. It’s refreshing, creamy, and satisfying without being too heavy.
Perfect Pairings
1. Grilled Meats
Serve it alongside grilled chicken, steak, or ribs. The tangy, creamy dressing balances out smoky, savory proteins perfectly.
2. Tacos or Fajitas
Pair this salad with your favorite tacos—beef, chicken, shrimp, or vegetarian. It’s an excellent cooling contrast to spicy or zesty taco fillings.
3. BBQ and Potlucks
Bring it to a cookout or summer party as a vibrant, crowd-pleasing alternative to traditional pasta salads or coleslaw.
4. Burrito Bowls
Add it to your next burrito bowl as a flavorful twist—just scoop a spoonful over rice, beans, and grilled veggies or meats.
5. Light Lunch or Meal Prep
Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or beans and turn it into a balanced lunch. It stores well in the fridge for up to 3–4 days, making it a great make-ahead option.
Top It Off
- Extra Cotija Cheese – Crumbled on top for a salty finishing touch.
- Fresh Cilantro – Adds bright color and fresh aroma.
- Chili Powder or Tajín – For a spicy, zesty dusting just before serving.
- Fresh Lime Wedges – Let guests squeeze their own for added citrus pop.
Conclusion
Elote Pasta Salad is the kind of dish that turns heads at any table—bursting with bold Mexican street corn flavors, creamy dressing, and just the right touch of spice. Whether you’re whipping it up for a weeknight dinner, packing it for a picnic, or showing off at your next barbecue, this salad delivers on taste, texture, and convenience.
What makes this recipe truly shine is its balance. The sweet roasted corn, tangy lime juice, and rich cotija cheese work together to create a creamy yet vibrant flavor profile. Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable—perfect with add-ins like protein, veggies, or spice tweaks to suit your crowd.
Ready in about 30 minutes and great for making ahead, Elote Pasta Salad brings comfort food charm with a fresh, flavorful twist. If you’re looking for a way to upgrade your side dish game, this recipe is your new go-to.
Elote Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Pasta Salad Base:
- 8 oz pasta elbow, rotini, or bowtie work great
- 2 cups corn kernels grilled, roasted, frozen, or canned; drained if needed
- ½ cup red onion finely diced
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese or substitute with feta if needed
Creamy Elote Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika optional, for added smokiness
- 1 clove garlic minced or finely grated
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 jalapeño diced (for heat)
- 1 cup diced grilled chicken or black beans for added protein
- ¼ cup chopped green onions for extra flavor and color
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions (usually about 8–10 minutes).
- Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and cool it down. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Corn
- Grilled corn: If using fresh corn on the cob, grill it over medium-high heat until lightly charred. After the corn is cooked, let it cool slightly before cutting the kernels from the cob.
- Frozen corn: Sauté in a dry skillet over high heat until golden spots appear. Let cool.
- Canned corn: Drain well and pat dry with a paper towel to avoid excess moisture.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- Mayonnaise
- Sour cream
- Lime juice
- Lime zest
- Chili powder
- Smoked paprika (if using)
- Garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, corn, red onion, cilantro, and cotija cheese.
- Pour the dressing over the mixture.
- Gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Chill (Optional)
- For the most delicious result, cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
- You can serve it immediately if you’re short on time—it will still taste great.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss.
- Top with extra cotija, cilantro, lime wedges, or a sprinkle of chili powder for added flair.
Notes
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 430mg
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
FAQs
Can I make Elote Pasta Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Elote Pasta Salad is a perfect make-ahead dish. Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Give it a quick stir before serving, and consider refreshing the flavors with a squeeze of lime or an extra sprinkle of cotija cheese.
What type of pasta works best for Elote Pasta Salad?
Short pasta shapes such as rotini, penne, or bowtie are recommended for this salad. They hold the creamy dressing well and provide a satisfying bite. Just be sure to cook the pasta until al dente so it doesn’t get mushy after mixing.
Is Elote Pasta Salad served warm or cold?
Traditionally, Elote Pasta Salad is served cold or at room temperature. This makes it ideal for potlucks, picnics, and meal prep. That said, it can be served slightly warm if made fresh—just allow the ingredients to blend while still slightly warm from cooking.
What can I use instead of cotija cheese?
If cotija isn’t available, try using crumbled feta cheese or grated Parmesan. Feta has a similar tangy, crumbly texture, while Parmesan adds a salty depth. Both work well in this recipe.
How long does Elote Pasta Salad last in the refrigerator?
Stored in an airtight container, this pasta salad will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. The flavor may even improve over time as the ingredients marinate together. Just stir before serving.
Can I add protein to Elote Pasta Salad?
Absolutely. Diced grilled chicken, cooked shrimp, or black beans are excellent additions. They turn this side dish into a satisfying main course without changing the core flavor of the salad.
Is Elote Pasta Salad spicy?
It has a mild kick from the chili powder, but it’s not overly spicy. If you prefer more heat, you can add cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños. To tone it down for kids or spice-sensitive eaters, simply reduce or omit the chili powder.