Elote Pasta Salad
I got this recipe from TikTok @the feedfeed
1 lb rotini pasta
1 cup sour cream
¼- ½ cup mayo
Juice from 1 lime
Tajin seasoning, to taste (about 1-2 tsp)
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1-2 cloves garlic, grated
1-2 tbsp olive oil (depending on desired thickness)
Salt, to taste
½ cup red onion, diced
12 oz frozen fire roasted corn, defrosted (can also heat up in a pan with some butter)
¼ cup cilantro
chopped 1 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
1. Cook your pasta in heavily salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside. Toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine your sour cream, mayo, lime juice, tajin, chili powder, cumin, grated garlic, olive oil, and salt. Whisk to combine.
3. Add in your cooled pasta directly into the bowl and mix to fully coat.
4. Add in your red onion, corn (save a few tbsp for topping), cilantro, and cotija cheese. Toss to combine.
5. Top with extra corn, cotija cheese, ano clantro. Serve and enjoy me
To make this elote pasta salad even more satisfying and well-rounded, consider adding a protein that pairs well with these bold flavors. Grilled chicken or shrimp work beautifully, complementing the creamy dressing and smoky corn. For a vegetarian protein boost, black beans or grilled halloumi cheese add texture and nutrition without overpowering the dish's freshness. You can also experiment with different herbs like parsley or basil alongside the cilantro for a unique twist. If preparing in advance, keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving to maintain the pasta’s texture. Adding the corn right before serving preserves its sweetness and crunch, enhancing each bite. This recipe is versatile for potlucks or weeknight dinners. To lighten it up, swap mayo for Greek yogurt and reduce oil slightly while keeping the creamy consistency. Adding a dash of balsamic vinaigrette can bring a subtle tang that balances the smokiness. The use of Tajin seasoning gives it that signature spicy, citrusy flavor reminiscent of traditional Mexican street corn (elote). If Tajin isn’t available, a mix of chili powder and lime zest can serve as a good substitute. Using rotini pasta is ideal because its twists hold onto the delicious dressing better than smooth pastas. Cooking the pasta al dente ensures it won’t become mushy after chilling. Overall, this elote pasta salad offers a fresh, tasty option for pasta lovers seeking something a little different, combining creamy, spicy, and savory notes in every bite.
I made it for my church and everyone loved it! It was delicious!!