20-Minute Elote Pasta Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Elote is a fan favorite with its smoky, creamy, and tangy flavors. When transformed into a pasta salad, it becomes a perfect side dish or even a light main course. The sweet, grilled corn pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce made from mayo, sour cream, and cotija cheese, while the lime and spices add a burst of flavor. Plus, it’s a quick and easy recipe that comes together in just 20 minutes, making it a great option for busy days or last-minute gatherings.

Ingredients

Pasta:

• 1 lb Farfalle pasta
• ½ tbsp salt (for boiling pasta)

Corn:

• 4 corn on the cob
• 1 tsp salt (for water)

Elote Ingredients:

• 2 limes, juiced
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup crema sour cream
• 5 oz cotija or feta cheese
• ¼ bunch fresh cilantro, chopped

Spices:

• ⅛ tsp cumin powder
• ⅛ tsp chili powder
• ⅛ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp lime chili powder
• ⅛ tsp salt

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

Directions

1. Boil the Pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add ½ tablespoon of salt. Add the farfalle pasta and cook according to package instructions (usually around 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Corn: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 1 teaspoon of salt. Add the corn on the cob and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the kernels are tender. Once cooked, remove the corn and allow it to cool slightly before cutting the kernels off the cob.
3. Make the Elote Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, crema sour cream, lime juice, cumin powder, chili powder, paprika, lime chili powder, and salt. Mix until smooth and well combined.
4. Assemble the Salad: In the same large bowl, add the cooked pasta, corn kernels, and chopped cilantro. Pour the elote sauce over the top and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
5. Finish and Serve: Crumble the cotija or feta cheese over the top of the salad and give it a final toss. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy your creamy, tangy, and flavorful Elote Pasta Salad!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Pasta Options: While farfalle is great, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, like penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni.
• Corn Substitutes: If you don’t have fresh corn on the cob, you can use frozen or canned corn. Just make sure to thaw or drain it before adding to the salad.
• Cheese Options: If you can’t find cotija cheese, feta cheese is a great substitute, providing a similar salty and tangy flavor.
• Vegan/Vegetarian: To make this dish vegan, use a plant-based mayo and crema, and substitute the cotija for a vegan cheese alternative.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: This pasta salad is best served cold, so there’s no need to reheat. If it becomes too thick after refrigeration, you can add a little extra lime juice or a splash of water to loosen it up.

FAQs

1. Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, this pasta salad can be made a few hours or even a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and give it a quick toss before serving.

2. Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen corn works perfectly! Just thaw it out before adding it to the salad.

3. Can I add other veggies to this salad?

Absolutely! You can add diced bell peppers, red onions, or even jalapeños for an extra crunch or kick.

4. How can I make this dish spicier?

For more heat, you can add chopped jalapeños, more chili powder, or even a drizzle of hot sauce to the salad. Adjust according to your spice preference!

5. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier substitute for sour cream. It will give a slightly tangier flavor but will still complement the dish well.

6. Can I grill the corn for extra flavor?

Yes, grilling the corn adds a smoky depth to the flavor, which is perfect for this salad. Simply grill the corn for a few minutes on each side until lightly charred before cutting off the kernels.

7. What if I can’t find cotija cheese?

Feta cheese is a great substitute for cotija in this recipe, as it has a similar crumbly texture and salty taste.

8. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini, penne, or macaroni. The choice is yours!

9. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this recipe dairy-free, swap out the mayo, crema, and cheese for dairy-free versions. Many stores carry dairy-free sour cream, cheese, and mayo alternatives.

10. Can I serve this pasta salad warm?

This salad is best served cold, as the creamy sauce and corn really shine when chilled. If you prefer it warm, you can serve it immediately after mixing, but it’s really meant to be a refreshing cold dish.

Conclusion

This 20-Minute Elote Pasta Salad is a quick, creamy, and flavor-packed dish that’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Combining the sweetness of corn with the richness of mayo and sour cream, and the tangy kick from lime and spices, it’s a unique twist on classic street corn. With minimal prep and cook time, this pasta salad is the perfect addition to any meal or celebration. Enjoy it fresh, and it’s sure to become a new favorite!

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