20-Minute Elote Pasta Salad: Easy and Delicious Summer Recipe

Name: 20-Minute Elote Pasta Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 8 oz rotini pasta; 2 cups fresh corn (about 3 ears), grilled and kernels removed; 1/2 cup diced red onion; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1/2 cup crumbled Cotija or feta cheese; Juice of 2 limes; 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option); 1 tsp chili powder; Salt to taste

Published: August 17, 2025

by Molly white

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This 20-Minute Elote Pasta Salad is incredibly easy to whip up, perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings
The flavor profile combines sweetness from corn with tangy lime and creamy dressing, making it irresistible
Its colorful presentation brightens any table setting while being versatile enough to serve as a side or main dish
You can easily adapt it to include your favorite add-ins like avocado or black beans

Friends rave about how delightful this salad is; I still recall the amazed expressions when I first served it at a potluck!

Elote Pasta Salad: Easy and Delicious Summer Recipe

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: easy vegetarian quesadilla.

Pasta: Use short pasta like rotini or penne; they hold onto flavors beautifully.
Fresh Corn: Grill or boil fresh corn for that sweet, smoky flavor; frozen works too if you’re in a pinch. fresh veggie rolls.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of herbal freshness; feel free to use parsley if you’re not a fan.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice gives that zesty kick; bottled lime juice just doesn’t cut it!
Mayonnaise: A key ingredient for creaminess; consider using Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Chili Powder: Adds just the right amount of spice; adjust according to your heat preference.
Cheese (Cotija or Feta): Crumbled cheese enhances flavor and texture; choose between Cotija for authenticity or feta for saltiness.
Red Onion: Finely diced red onion provides crunch and sweetness; rinse it under cold water to mellow its sharpness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

Prepare the Corn: Grill corn on medium-high heat until charred and tender, about 10 minutes, turning occasionally for even cooking. Let cool before cutting kernels off the cob.

Mix Dressing Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, and salt until smooth. Adjust seasoning based on personal taste preferences.

Toss Everything Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, grilled corn kernels, diced red onion, cilantro, and cheese. Pour dressing over and gently toss until everything is well-coated.

Serve & Enjoy!: Transfer salad to a serving platter or individual bowls. Garnish with extra cheese and cilantro if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature for best flavor.

This 20-Minute Elote Pasta Salad is sure to be the star of your next gathering! Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself after a long day, every bite promises happiness wrapped in nostalgia. cheese tortellini pasta salad So grab your fork—adventure awaits!

You Must Know

This 20-Minute Elote Pasta Salad combines fresh flavors and satisfying textures that everyone loves
It’s quick to whip up, perfect for gatherings, and the aroma of roasted corn will have your friends flocking to the table
Each bite feels like a fiesta!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling your pasta while you grill or roast the corn. This multitasking makes everything ready at once, ensuring no soggy noodles or sad corn.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what’s in your pantry. Try adding black beans for protein or jalapeños for an extra kick! For more inspiration, check out this delicious garlic butter green beans recipe.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh corn for a sweet crunch; canned corn lacks that glorious texture
Don’t skip the lime juice; it brightens flavors beautifully
Reserve some cheese to sprinkle on top before serving for added visual appeal

It was a sunny Saturday afternoon when I first made this dish for my friends. They couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was, and I knew I had struck gold!

FAQ

What makes this 20-Minute Elote Pasta Salad special?

For more inspiration, check out this strawberry spinach salad recipe.

This salad features roasted corn that adds a delightful sweetness and texture.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it a few hours in advance; just store it in the fridge.

What can I substitute for pasta in this recipe?

Try using quinoa or brown rice for a gluten-free option that’s equally tasty!

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