Print

Creamy Street Corn Elote Pasta Salad Recipe Easy Homemade with Cotija and Tajin

creamy street corn elote pasta salad - featured image
Print Recipe

A creamy, smoky, and spicy pasta salad inspired by Mexican street corn (elote), featuring cotija cheese and tajin seasoning. Perfect for summer gatherings and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces rotini or elbow macaroni
  • 3 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (preferably full-fat)
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
  • Juice of 1 large lime (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons tajin seasoning
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of rotini or elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain well and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta. Drain again and set aside.
  2. If using fresh corn, shuck and clean 3 ears (about 3 cups of kernels). Grill the corn on a hot grill or grill pan for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until lightly charred and smoky. If using frozen corn, roast on a baking sheet at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes, tossing halfway, to get some color and deepen the flavor. Let cool slightly.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup sour cream, juice of 1 large lime, and 1 minced garlic clove. Taste and season with 1 to 2 teaspoons tajin seasoning, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust to your liking.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta and grilled corn kernels. Pour the dressing over and toss gently but thoroughly to coat everything evenly.
  5. Fold in 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese and 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, if using.
  6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors marry. Before serving, give it a quick stir and sprinkle a little extra tajin or cotija on top for garnish.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta; it should be al dente. Grill or roast the corn for authentic smoky flavor. Adjust tajin seasoning carefully to avoid overpowering the salad. Use fresh lime juice for best brightness. Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld. If too thick after chilling, loosen with a splash of milk or lime juice.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta salad, street corn, elote, cotija cheese, tajin, creamy pasta salad, summer recipe, easy pasta salad

Find it online: https://avabowls.com/creamy-street-corn-elote-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-homemade-with-cotija-and-tajin/