Elote Corn Pasta Cotija

Elote Corn Pasta with Cotija is a vibrant celebration of summer flavors inspired by the beloved Mexican street corn. This colorful pasta salad combines sweet, charred corn, crisp red bell pepper, and fresh herbs, all tossed in a creamy, smoky lime dressing. The finishing touch of salty Cotija cheese adds a delightful tang that perfectly complements the dish’s bright and bold taste. Ideal for warm-weather meals, potlucks, or simply as a refreshing main dish, this recipe is both easy to prepare and packed with satisfying textures and flavors.

Save to Pinterest

This pasta salad offers a wonderful mix of comforting pasta and vibrant vegetables, making it as satisfying as it is refreshing. The smoky charred corn adds a subtle depth of flavor that is perfectly paired with lime’s bright acidity and the creamy, spiced dressing. Each bite is a harmony of textures and tastes that make it a crowd-pleaser all summer long.

Ingredients

• Pasta
  • 12 oz (340 g) short pasta (such as rotini or penne)
  • 1 Tbsp kosher salt (for boiling water)
• Vegetables
  • 3 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (about 4 ears fresh)
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 small red onion, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 green onions, sliced
• Dressing
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 Tbsp sour cream
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • Zest and juice of 1 lime
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Finishing
  • 3 oz (85 g) Cotija cheese, crumbled
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely diced (optional)
  • Extra lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

1.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside to cool.

2.

Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the corn kernels and cook (dry, no oil) for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly charred. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.

3.

Add the diced red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, and green onions to the bowl with the corn.

4.

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, lime zest, lime juice, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

5.

Add the cooled pasta to the vegetable mixture. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.

6.

Fold in the Cotija cheese and jalapeño (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

7.

Serve chilled or at room temperature with extra lime wedges.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For an even smokier flavor, grill the corn on the cob before removing the kernels. This extra step heightens the charred notes and enriches the dish's authenticity. Additionally, rinsing the pasta after cooking cools it down quickly and helps the dressing cling better to each piece. Use fresh ingredients wherever possible to maximize brightness and texture.

Varianten und Anpassungen

If Cotija cheese is unavailable, substitute with feta for a similar salty tang. For added protein, grilled chicken or shrimp can be incorporated. For a lighter dressing, swap the sour cream with Greek yogurt. You can also leave out the jalapeño or adjust the amount for your preferred spice level.

Serviervorschläge

This salad shines as a standalone main dish for a light summer meal but also pairs beautifully with grilled meats or tacos. Serve it chilled or at room temperature with extra lime wedges to brighten each serving. It's an excellent choice for potlucks, picnics, or as part of a festive Mexican-inspired feast.

Save to Pinterest

With its vibrant colors, fresh ingredients, and creamy, smoky dressing, Elote Corn Pasta with Cotija is a delicious tribute to Mexican street food that’s perfect for summer gatherings or a quick everyday meal. Its balance of textures and flavors will keep you coming back for more, making it a staple in your recipe collection.

Questions & Answers

→ Can I use frozen corn?

Yes, both fresh and frozen corn kernels work well; just be sure to char them in a skillet for flavor.

→ Is there a substitute for Cotija cheese?

Feta cheese makes a great alternative if you can't find Cotija. It adds a similar salty, crumbly texture.

→ How can I make this gluten-free?

Use your favorite gluten-free pasta, ensuring you follow package instructions for best results.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Absolutely. Assemble and refrigerate up to a day ahead. Add extra lime or dressing if pasta absorbs moisture.

→ How do I add more protein?

Mix in grilled chicken or shrimp, or toss in black beans for a vegetarian-friendly protein boost.