If you love the bold, zesty flavors of Mexican street corn (elote) and the comfort of a creamy pasta salad, then this Elote Pasta Salad recipe is a must-try. Combining charred corn, tender pasta, creamy dressing, and a hint of spice, this dish delivers the perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and savory goodness.
Perfect for summer BBQs, potlucks, and cookouts, this easy-to-make salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of cotija cheese, lime juice, cilantro, and chili powder gives it an authentic Tex-Mex twist, making every bite packed with flavor.
Whether you’re looking for a refreshing side dish or a satisfying main course, this bold, creamy, and irresistible Elote Pasta Salad is sure to be a hit. Keep reading for a step-by-step guide on how to make this delicious fusion of Mexican street corn and pasta salad!
What Is Elote Pasta Salad?
The Inspiration Behind Elote Pasta Salad
Elote Pasta Salad is a fusion of Mexican street corn (elote) and creamy pasta salad, creating a dish with bold, smoky, and tangy flavors combined.
How This Dish Combines the Best of Both Worlds
Traditional pasta salad is creamy and refreshing, while elote brings in charred corn, lime juice, and chili powder, resulting in a deliciously unique Tex-Mex-inspired side dish.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This pasta salad is creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy, making it perfect for BBQs, potlucks, cookouts, or as a flavorful make-ahead meal option.
How It Fits Into Mexican and Tex-Mex Cuisine
Although Elote Pasta Salad isn’t a traditional Mexican dish, it blends authentic Mexican ingredients with a pasta-based twist, making it perfectly Tex-Mex inspired overall.
By combining cotija cheese, grilled corn, and a creamy dressing, this recipe delivers an irresistible balance of flavors that everyone will absolutely love enjoying together.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create the perfect Elote Pasta Salad, you’ll need a combination of classic Mexican street corn flavors and creamy pasta salad elements. Here’s everything you need to make this dish both flavorful and satisfying.
Main Ingredients
Each ingredient plays a key role in achieving the bold, creamy, and slightly smoky taste of elote.
- Pasta – Choose a short pasta variety like elbow macaroni, rotini, penne, or bowtie. These shapes hold onto the creamy dressing well and provide the perfect texture.
- Corn – Traditional elote is made with grilled or roasted corn, which adds a delicious smoky flavor. You can use:
- Fresh corn on the cob (grilled or boiled, then cut off the cob)
- Canned corn (drained and lightly sautéed for extra flavor)
- Frozen corn (thawed and roasted in a skillet for a charred effect)
- Cotija Cheese – This crumbly, salty Mexican cheese is a staple in elote recipes. It enhances the creaminess and adds a rich umami flavor. If you can’t find cotija, you can substitute it with feta cheese or Parmesan.
- Mayonnaise & Sour Cream – These ingredients create the creamy base for the dressing. They help the flavors blend together while giving the salad its signature smooth texture.
- Lime Juice – Freshly squeezed lime juice adds brightness and acidity, balancing the richness of the dressing.
- Chili Powder – A key spice in Mexican street corn, chili powder adds a mild kick of heat and enhances the smoky flavor. For extra spice, you can use cayenne pepper or chipotle powder.
- Garlic Powder – Adds a deep, savory undertone to the dressing. Fresh minced garlic can also be used for a more intense flavor.
- Cilantro – Freshly chopped cilantro adds herbaceous brightness and a pop of color to the dish. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can use parsley as a substitute.
Optional Additions and Variations
Want to customize your Elote Pasta Salad? Here are some optional ingredients you can add for extra flavor and texture:
- Jalapeño – Finely chopped jalapeños add a spicy kick. If you love heat, consider using serrano peppers for even more spice.
- Red Onion – Diced red onion brings a mild crunch and a slightly sweet, tangy bite.
- Avocado – Sliced or diced avocado gives the salad a buttery texture and extra creaminess.
- Black Beans – Adding black beans boosts protein and fiber, making this salad a more filling dish.
- Grilled Chicken or Shrimp – If you want to turn this into a hearty main course, add some grilled protein for extra flavor.
Best Pasta Choices for This Salad
Not all pasta shapes work the same way in cold salads. Here are the best options to hold onto the creamy dressing and mix well with the other ingredients:
- Elbow Macaroni – A classic choice that absorbs the dressing beautifully.
- Rotini – The spiral shape helps trap bits of cheese and dressing for extra flavor in every bite.
- Penne – Sturdy and easy to eat, making it a great choice for potlucks and BBQs.
- Bowtie (Farfalle) – Holds up well in creamy salads and adds a fun texture.
Pro Tip: To prevent the pasta from getting too soft, cook it al dente and rinse it with cold water after draining. This helps stop the cooking process and keeps it from becoming mushy when mixed with the dressing.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Elote Pasta Salad
Making Elote Pasta Salad is simple and requires just a few easy steps. Follow this detailed guide to create a dish bursting with creamy, smoky, and tangy flavors.
1. Cook the Pasta to Perfection
- Choose a short pasta shape like elbow macaroni, rotini, penne, or bowtie pasta—these hold onto the creamy dressing well.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the pasta and toss it to keep it from sticking together while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Prepare the Corn for Maximum Flavor
The corn is the star ingredient in this salad, and there are multiple ways to prepare it:
- Grilled Corn: Brush fresh corn on the cob with oil and grill it over medium-high heat for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally until charred. Let it cool, then cut the kernels off the cob.
- Oven-Roasted Corn: If you don’t have a grill, roast the corn in a 400°F (200°C) oven for about 15–20 minutes until slightly charred.
- Stovetop Sautéed Corn: Heat a pan over medium-high heat, add a little butter or oil, and sauté frozen or canned corn for about 5 minutes until slightly browned.
- Using Canned or Frozen Corn: If using canned corn, drain and rinse it before lightly toasting it in a dry pan for added flavor. For frozen corn, thaw it and sauté it for a smoky touch.
3. Make the Creamy Dressing
The creamy elote dressing is what brings all the flavors together. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the following:
- ½ cup mayonnaise – The base of the dressing, providing a rich and creamy texture.
- ¼ cup sour cream – Adds tanginess and balances the richness.
- Juice of 1 lime – Brings freshness and a slight acidity.
- ½ teaspoon chili powder – Gives the dish its classic smoky-spicy flavor.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the depth of flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional) – Adds a hint of smokiness.
- Salt and pepper to taste
Whisk everything together until smooth and well combined.
4. Assemble and Serve the Salad
Now, it’s time to bring everything together:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta with the grilled corn kernels.
- Pour the creamy dressing over the mixture and toss until evenly coated.
- Add ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese, ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro, and 1 finely diced jalapeño (optional for extra spice).
- Gently mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Taste and adjust seasoning—add more lime juice for tanginess, more chili powder for heat, or extra cheese for a richer flavor.
5. Garnish and Enjoy!
For the final touch, garnish with:
- Extra cotija cheese crumbles for a salty bite.
- A sprinkle of chili powder or Tajín seasoning for added zest.
- Fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
- A few lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the salad.
Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Tips and Variations for the Perfect Elote Pasta Salad
A great Elote Pasta Salad is all about balancing flavors, textures, and freshness. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly, along with variations to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
1. Make It Spicier
If you love extra heat, there are several ways to kick up the spice level in your Elote Pasta Salad:
- Add fresh jalapeños – Dice them finely and mix them into the salad for a crisp, spicy bite.
- Use cayenne pepper – A small pinch can elevate the heat without overpowering the other flavors.
- Incorporate hot sauce – A drizzle of your favorite Mexican hot sauce (such as Cholula or Tapatío) can add depth and heat.
- Try chipotle in adobo – Mixing in a bit of chipotle sauce will give the dish a smoky-spicy kick.
2. Make It Dairy-Free or Vegan
If you’re avoiding dairy, you can still enjoy a delicious and creamy Elote Pasta Salad with these simple swaps:
- Use dairy-free mayo – Opt for a plant-based alternative like avocado oil mayo or cashew-based mayo.
- Swap sour cream for coconut yogurt – Unsweetened coconut yogurt adds creaminess while maintaining a mild flavor.
- Try vegan cheese – Instead of cotija cheese, use a crumbled vegan feta or nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste.
- Add extra avocado – Mashed avocado can enhance creaminess and complement the flavors perfectly.
3. Use Different Pasta Types
The best pasta for Elote Pasta Salad should hold the creamy dressing well while maintaining its shape. Here are some great options:
- Rotini or fusilli – Their spiral shape holds the dressing beautifully, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Bowtie (farfalle) – Adds a fun texture and works well with the creamy dressing.
- Elbow macaroni – A classic pasta salad choice that provides a soft and chewy texture.
- Penne or rigatoni – Sturdier options that hold up well in this creamy salad.
4. Add More Protein for a Hearty Meal
If you want to turn this pasta salad into a complete meal, consider adding some protein:
- Grilled chicken – Marinate chicken in lime juice, garlic, and chili powder, then slice it and mix it into the salad.
- Shrimp – Grilled or sautéed shrimp pairs beautifully with the creamy dressing and corn.
- Black beans – A great vegetarian protein option that also enhances the Mexican-inspired flavors.
- Chorizo or bacon – Crumbled spicy chorizo or crispy bacon can add a smoky, salty depth to the dish.
5. Experiment with Extra Ingredients
Customize your Elote Pasta Salad by incorporating additional textures and flavors:
- Avocado – Adds a rich, creamy texture and balances out the spice.
- Red onion – A small amount of finely chopped red onion adds crunch and a mild sharpness.
- Roasted red peppers – Bring a sweet, smoky element to the dish.
- Crispy tortilla strips – Sprinkle them on top for an added crunch just before serving.
6. Make It Ahead of Time & Storage Tips
- Prepare in advance – This salad actually tastes better after sitting for an hour or two, as the flavors meld together. If making ahead, store it in the fridge and give it a good stir before serving.
- Add extra dressing before serving – The pasta absorbs some of the dressing over time, so consider mixing in a little extra mayonnaise, lime juice, or sour cream before serving.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing, as the creamy dressing doesn’t thaw well.
What to Serve with Elote Pasta Salad
This bold and creamy Elote Pasta Salad is delicious on its own, but it truly shines when paired with complementary dishes. Whether you’re serving it at a summer BBQ, potluck, or casual family dinner, here are some great options to round out your meal.
Best Main Dishes to Pair With
Elote pasta salad pairs well with grilled, roasted, or smoky dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are a few main courses that complement its creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy profile:
- Grilled Meats – The smoky, charred flavors of grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp work perfectly with the creamy, zesty taste of elote pasta salad. Try marinating meats with lime juice, garlic, and chili powder for an extra punch of flavor.
- BBQ Favorites – Classic BBQ dishes like ribs, pulled pork, smoked brisket, or grilled sausages bring out the richness of the salad. The combination of smoky meats and creamy pasta is irresistible.
- Tacos & Fajitas – Serve elote pasta salad alongside chicken, beef, or veggie tacos and sizzling fajitas for a delicious Tex-Mex meal. The refreshing salad balances the heat from spicy seasonings.
- Burgers & Sandwiches – Whether it’s a juicy burger, crispy chicken sandwich, or a vegetarian black bean burger, this pasta salad makes a great alternative to fries or chips.
Refreshing Drinks to Serve
To complement the zesty and creamy flavors of elote pasta salad, try pairing it with these refreshing beverages:
- Horchata – This traditional Mexican rice drink with hints of cinnamon provides a sweet and cooling contrast to the slight spice in the salad.
- Agua Fresca – Light and fruity drinks like watermelon, hibiscus, or cucumber-lime agua fresca enhance the freshness of the meal.
- Limeade or Lemonade – The citrus acidity balances the creamy richness of the salad while keeping the meal light and refreshing.
- Iced Tea or Sparkling Water – Simple and refreshing, these drinks cleanse the palate between bites.
Side Dishes to Complete the Meal
If you’re hosting a feast, consider adding one or two side dishes to make your meal even more satisfying:
- Guacamole & Tortilla Chips – A bowl of fresh, homemade guacamole with crispy tortilla chips is a great appetizer or side to complement the pasta salad.
- Mexican Rice or Cilantro Lime Rice – A warm, fluffy rice dish with citrus and fresh herbs makes a hearty and flavorful addition to the meal.
- Black Bean Salad – A protein-packed black bean and corn salad with bell peppers and avocado adds texture and freshness.
- Grilled Vegetables – Zucchini, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms grilled with a touch of lime and chili powder enhance the smoky flavors of the pasta salad.
Make It a Full Mexican-Inspired Feast
For a well-rounded Mexican-style dinner, serve elote pasta salad with:
- Street tacos (al pastor, carnitas, or carne asada)
- Homemade salsa and pico de gallo
- Cornbread or Mexican-style street corn (esquites)
- Churros or tres leches cake for dessert
Conclusion
This bold, creamy, and irresistible Elote Pasta Salad is the perfect fusion of Mexican street corn and classic pasta salad, making it a must-try for your next gathering. With its smoky grilled corn, tangy lime dressing, and rich cotija cheese, every bite is packed with flavor. Whether you’re serving it at a BBQ, potluck, or casual family meal, this dish is sure to be a crowd favorite.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility—you can customize the spice level, add extra ingredients like avocado or black beans, or make it dairy-free to suit your preferences. Plus, it pairs beautifully with grilled meats, tacos, or refreshing drinks like agua fresca and horchata for a well-rounded meal.
Now that you have everything you need to make this delicious Elote Pasta Salad, it’s time to bring the flavors of Mexican street corn to your table! Try it out, experiment with different variations, and let us know how it turned out in the comments below. If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends and family and check out more easy and flavorful dishes on our blog!
If you’re looking for another delicious variation of Elote Pasta Salad, check out this recipe from Bad Batch Baking for a unique twist on this creamy, flavorful dish!
FAQs About Elote Pasta Salad
1. Can I make Elote Pasta Salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare this pasta salad a few hours or up to a day in advance. However, for the best texture, store the dressing separately and mix it in just before serving to prevent the pasta from absorbing too much moisture.
2. Can I use canned or frozen corn instead of fresh corn?
Absolutely! While grilled fresh corn adds the best smoky flavor, you can use canned or frozen corn for convenience. If using canned corn, drain and rinse it. For frozen corn, thaw and lightly sauté or roast it for extra flavor.
3. How do I make this dish spicier?
To add extra heat, try one or more of these options:
- Add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers.
- Sprinkle in cayenne pepper or extra chili powder.
- Mix in a few dashes of hot sauce or chipotle powder.
4. Can I make this Elote Pasta Salad dairy-free?
Yes! Simply swap out the cotija cheese for a dairy-free alternative and replace sour cream and mayonnaise with vegan versions. You can also use avocado to add creaminess.
Best Elote Pasta Salad
Ingredients
For the Salad:
12 oz (340g) pasta (elbow, rotini, or bowtie)
2 cups grilled corn kernels (from 3-4 ears of corn)
½ cup cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta cheese)
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
1 jalapeño, finely diced (optional for spice)
¼ cup cilantro, chopped1 avocado, diced (optional)
For the Dressing:
½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sour cream
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)1 tsp chili powder
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra spice)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.Prepare the Corn: If using fresh corn, grill it over medium-high heat until lightly charred, turning occasionally (about 5-7 minutes). Let it cool, then cut the kernels off the cob.Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, garlic, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth.Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, grilled corn, cotija cheese, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat.Chill & Serve: Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with extra cotija cheese and cilantro, and serve with lime wedges.
Notes
- Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce or omit the jalapeño and cayenne pepper.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute vegan mayonnaise and dairy-free cheese to make this salad completely dairy-free.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare this Elote Pasta Salad up to a day in advance. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and mix well before serving.
- Best Pairings: This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, tacos, or refreshing drinks like horchata and agua fresca.