Elote Corn Pasta Cotija

Elote Corn Pasta with Cotija is a vibrant celebration of summer flavors inspired by the beloved Mexican street corn. This salad brings together sweet, charred corn kernels, fresh vegetables, and a creamy lime-infused dressing—all tossed with tender pasta and finished with salty Cotija cheese. Perfect for warm-weather gatherings, it combines bold, zesty, and smoky notes into an easy-to-make, vegetarian dish that brightens up any table.

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This dish pairs the smokiness of charred corn with the brightness of fresh vegetables and zesty lime for a salad that bursts with flavor in every bite. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or seeking a colorful weeknight meal, Elote Corn Pasta is a refreshing choice that pleases the crowd.

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. Cook the pasta

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. Char the corn

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. Mix vegetables

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

4. Prepare the dressing

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. Combine pasta and dressing

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

6. Add finishing touches

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

7. Serve

Serve chilled or at room temperature with extra lime wedges.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For an even bolder smoky flavor, try grilling the corn on the cob before cutting off the kernels to char them. Rinsing the cooked pasta with cold water helps stop cooking, keeping it firm and perfect for salads. Using fresh vegetables and herbs will brighten the salad and layer in fresh textures.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can substitute feta cheese if Cotija is unavailable for a similar salty creaminess. For protein, grilled chicken or shrimp make excellent additions. To lighten the dressing, swap sour cream for Greek yogurt. Adjust the spice level or omit jalapeño based on your preference.

Serviervorschläge

This pasta salad shines as a side or main dish at picnics and potlucks. Serve with extra lime wedges to add fresh brightness. It pairs well with grilled meats or as a colorful centerpiece during summer gatherings.

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Elote Corn Pasta with Cotija captures the essence of Mexican street food in a fresh pasta salad form. Its mix of smoky, creamy, tangy, and fresh components comes together in a dish that is both simple and impressive—guaranteed to become a summer favorite.

Questions & Answers

→ How can I get extra smoky flavor in this dish?

Grill the corn on the cob before cutting off the kernels for intensified smoky notes.

→ What can I use instead of Cotija cheese?

Feta cheese is an excellent alternative if Cotija isn't available in your area.

→ Is this dish best served warm or cold?

It's delicious served chilled or at room temperature, making it perfect for summer gatherings.

→ Can I make it ahead for a potluck?

Yes, assemble a few hours ahead and refrigerate. Add extra lime and cheese just before serving for brightness.

→ Are there ways to increase the protein content?

You can toss in grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier, protein-rich dish without changing its character.

→ Is this suitable for a vegetarian diet?

All ingredients listed are vegetarian. Just be sure to check the cheese and mayonnaise labels for animal rennet.