20-Minute Elote Pasta Salad: A Flavorful Fiesta Dish

Name: 20-Minute Elote Pasta Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 8 oz short pasta (rotini or shells); 1 cup grilled corn kernels (fresh or frozen); 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional); 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt); Juice of 1 lime; 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta cheese); 1 tsp chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: August 20, 2025

by Amelia

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The 20-Minute Elote Pasta Salad combines ease and flavor for quick weeknight meals.
It’s visually stunning with vibrant colors that make it an eye-catching dish.
Perfect for summer barbecues or picnics in the park.
You can easily swap ingredients based on your preferences or what’s in your pantry.

Ingredients for 20-Minute Elote Pasta Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pasta: Use short pasta like rotini or shells; they hold onto the dressing beautifully.
Grilled Corn: Freshly grilled corn kernels provide that sweet crunch; frozen or canned corn works too if you’re in a pinch.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavors; if you’re one of those who think it tastes like soap, feel free to skip it.
Mayonnaise: A generous dollop brings creaminess; you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens up flavors; bottled juice just won’t cut it here!
Queso Fresco: Crumbled queso fresco offers tangy richness; feta cheese can be an acceptable substitute.

For seasoning:

Chili Powder: This adds warmth without overwhelming heat; adjust according to preference.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors; fresh ground black pepper is always better!

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

How to Make 20-Minute Elote Pasta Salad

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente—about eight minutes should do the trick.

Step 2: Grill the Corn

While your pasta cooks, throw some corn on the grill (or use a grill pan). Cook until slightly charred—about five minutes will give you that smoky flavor.

Step 3: Mix Up Your Dressing

In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is smooth and creamy—like that blissful feeling when you find money in your coat pocket.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

When your pasta is ready, drain it and rinse under cold water to cool it down quickly. Toss it into the bowl with your dressing along with grilled corn and cilantro—feel free to dance while doing this!

Step 5: Add Cheese

Sprinkle crumbled queso fresco over the top and gently fold everything together until evenly coated—think of it as giving each piece of pasta its very own luxurious spa day.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Transfer your beautiful creation into serving bowls. Garnish with extra cilantro or cheese if desired—because who doesn’t love more cheese? Enjoy immediately or let it chill in the fridge for about half an hour for even more flavor infusion.

Now grab your fork because it’s time for some serious indulgence! You’ve just made an unforgettable dish that’s perfect for any occasion—from family dinners to backyard barbecues—and probably makes you feel like quite the culinary artist!

You Must Know

This vibrant 20-Minute Elote Pasta Salad is not just quick to make; it’s a fiesta in a bowl!
With sweet corn, creamy dressing, and zesty lime, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Perfect for potlucks or a simple weeknight dinner, your taste buds will thank you!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta until al dente while you grill the corn for that smoky flavor. Mix your freshly cooked pasta with the corn and dressing to create a delightful dish that’s bursting with flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to switch up ingredients based on your pantry. Add diced jalapeños for heat or swap out the cilantro for parsley if you’re not a fan. The possibilities are endless!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If reheating, add a splash of water and stir gently to keep everything creamy.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always cook pasta al dente to ensure it holds up well in the salad.
Don’t skip grilling the corn; it adds amazing depth of flavor.
Finally, mix in fresh herbs right before serving for maximum freshness!

I remember the first time I made this 20-Minute Elote Pasta Salad. My friends raved about it during our summer BBQ, and I felt like a culinary genius – who knew pasta could be so fun?

FAQs:

What ingredients are needed for 20-Minute Elote Pasta Salad?

To make 20-Minute Elote Pasta Salad, you will need pasta, corn (fresh or canned), mayonnaise, lime juice, cotija cheese, cilantro, and spices like chili powder and cumin. The combination of these ingredients creates a flavorful dish that is perfect for summer gatherings or quick weeknight dinners. fresh spring roll bowls You can also customize it by adding diced tomatoes or avocado for extra freshness. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also packed with vibrant flavors that everyone will enjoy.

How long does 20-Minute Elote Pasta Salad last in the fridge?

If stored properly in an airtight container, 20-Minute Elote Pasta Salad can last up to three days in the refrigerator. However, for the best taste and texture, it’s recommended to consume it within the first two days. As the salad sits, the pasta may absorb some of the dressing, so adding a little extra lime juice or mayo before serving can help refresh its flavor. This makes it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.

Can I make 20-Minute Elote Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely prepare 20-Minute Elote Pasta Salad ahead of time. It’s an ideal dish to make a few hours in advance or even the night before serving. Just be sure to keep it refrigerated until you are ready to serve. vegetarian quesadilla side dish If making it a day ahead, consider adding fresh toppings like cilantro just before serving to maintain their flavor and texture. It’s a convenient dish that saves time and allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Is there a way to make 20-Minute Elote Pasta Salad vegan?

Absolutely! To create a vegan version of 20-Minute Elote Pasta Salad, simply substitute mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative or use avocado as a creamy base. Replace cotija cheese with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for added flavor without dairy. Greek salad with lentils You can also add roasted chickpeas for additional protein and crunch. This version retains all the deliciousness while catering to different dietary preferences.

Conclusion for 20-Minute Elote Pasta Salad:

In summary, 20-Minute Elote Pasta Salad is a quick and delicious option for any meal occasion. With its blend of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors, this dish becomes a crowd favorite in no time. Perfect for potlucks or weeknight dinners, it offers versatility through easy substitutions for various dietary needs. Whether enjoyed fresh or as leftovers, this pasta salad delivers satisfying taste that everyone will love! For more inspiration, check out this easy corned beef and cabbage recipe.