Elote Corn Pasta with Cotija

Elote Corn Pasta with Cotija brings the vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn to a refreshing summer salad. This colorful dish combines sweet charred corn, tender pasta, a creamy smoky dressing, and tangy lime, all topped with salty Cotija cheese. Perfect for warm days, it’s an easy-to-make, vegetarian-friendly main dish or side that bursts with flavor in every bite.

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From boiling pasta to charring corn, each step adds layers of flavor and texture that make this salad irresistible. The combination of chilies and spices in the dressing highlights the sweetness of the corn and balances the richness of Cotija cheese perfectly.

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

Für ein rauchiges Aroma kann der Mais vorab gegrillt werden, bevor die Körner abgeschnitten werden. Achten Sie darauf, die Pasta nach dem Kochen schnell mit kaltem Wasser abzuschrecken, damit sie nicht weiter gart und die perfekte Konsistenz behält.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Ersetzen Sie Cotija-Käse durch Feta, falls dieser nicht verfügbar ist. Für eine proteinreichere Mahlzeit können gegrilltes Hähnchen oder Garnelen untergemischt werden. Für eine leichtere Variante eignet sich griechischer Joghurt als Ersatz für Sauerrahm.

Serviervorschläge

Das Gericht schmeckt hervorragend kalt oder bei Zimmertemperatur und wird idealerweise mit zusätzlichen Limettenstücken serviert, um die Frische noch stärker zu betonen. Es passt wunderbar zu Grillabenden, Picknicks oder als leichtes Hauptgericht im Sommer.

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With its balance of textures and vibrant Mexican-inspired flavors, this Elote Corn Pasta Salad will become a summer favorite. Whether for a casual meal or a festive gathering, it delivers a delightful punch of smoky, creamy, and tangy notes in every forkful.

Recipe FAQs

→ How can I add smoky flavor to this dish?

Grill the corn before adding to the pasta or increase the amount of smoked paprika to boost the smokiness.

→ What cheese can I substitute for Cotija?

Feta cheese is a great alternative to Cotija, offering a similar tangy and crumbly texture.

→ Can this dish be made ahead?

Yes, combine all ingredients except cheese and cilantro. Add them just before serving for best results.

→ Is this suitable for picnics?

Absolutely! This pasta salad holds up well, is easy to transport, and tastes great cold or at room temperature.

→ Can I boost the protein content?

Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or use chickpea pasta for extra protein in this vegetarian-friendly meal.

→ How do I make it lighter?

Swap in Greek yogurt for the sour cream to lighten up the dressing while maintaining a creamy texture.