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Cotija Mexican Style Elote Pasta Salad

Refreshing Cotija Mexican Style Elote Pasta Salad for Summer Fun

Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Cotija Mexican Style Elote Pasta Salad, perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Rotini Pasta Substitution: Any pasta shape can be used; consider penne or fusilli.
For the Salad
  • 2 cups Corn (roasted kernels) Substitution: Frozen corn can be used if fresh isn't available.
  • 1 cup Cotija Cheese Substitution: Feta cheese can be used for a similar flavor profile.
  • 1 medium Red Onion Substitution: Sweet onion can be a milder alternative.
  • 1/2 cup Fresh Cilantro Substitution: Parsley can be used for a different flavor, but it’s not as aromatic.
  • 1 medium Jalapeños Adjust the quantity for desired spice level; omit for a milder salad.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Greek Yogurt Substitution: Sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt can be used for different dietary needs.
  • 1/2 cup Olive Oil Mayonnaise Substitution: Regular mayonnaise or an alternative like avocado mayo can be used.
  • 2 large Limes (zested and juiced) Note: Fresh lime juice is preferred for the best flavor.
For Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Powder Adjust spices to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Adjust spices to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Adjust spices to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Adjust spices to taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt Adjust spices to taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust spices to taste.
  • 1 tablespoon Honey Adjust spices to taste.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Colander
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by finely dicing the red onion and jalapeños. Chop the fresh cilantro and crumble the cotija cheese. Zest and juice the limes.
  2. Bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add rotini pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes or until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water.
  3. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Roast fresh corn or sauté frozen corn until warmed through. Set aside to cool.
  4. In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil mayonnaise, lime zest, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and honey until smooth.
  5. Combine cooled pasta, roasted corn, diced onion, jalapeños, cilantro, and cotija cheese in a bowl. Pour dressing over and mix gently.
  6. Let the salad rest for 10-15 minutes at room temperature to allow flavors to meld. Stir before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It's best enjoyed fresh, but it can be frozen for up to 1 month.

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