Elote Pasta Salad Cotija Lime (Printable Version)

Pasta tossed with charred corn, creamy Cotija, lime, and chili for a bright, flavorful side or light meal.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pasta

01 - 12 oz short pasta such as rotini, fusilli, or penne

→ Vegetables

02 - 2 cups fresh corn kernels or frozen and thawed
03 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
04 - 1/2 small red onion, finely diced
05 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
06 - 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped, optional

→ Dressing

07 - 1/3 cup mayonnaise
08 - 1/4 cup sour cream
09 - 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice from approximately 2 limes
10 - 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
11 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
12 - 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
13 - 1 clove garlic, minced
14 - Salt and black pepper to taste

→ Cheese and Toppings

15 - 3/4 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled plus extra for garnish
16 - 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes or Tajín seasoning, optional for garnish
17 - Lime wedges for serving

# Directions:

01 - Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
02 - Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the corn kernels and cook without oil for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly charred. Remove from heat and let cool.
03 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
04 - Add the cooked pasta, charred corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño if using, and Cotija cheese to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently until everything is well coated.
05 - Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
06 - Before serving, garnish with extra Cotija, chili flakes or Tajín, and lime wedges.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The charred corn brings a subtle sweetness and smokiness that makes people ask what your secret ingredient is.
  • It tastes even better the next day when the flavors have gotten to know each other in the fridge.
  • You can throw it together in under 40 minutes, yet it feels like you've done something impressive.
02 -
  • Don't skip the step of cooling the pasta under cold water or you'll end up with a warm mush instead of distinct, tender pieces.
  • The charred corn is non-negotiable—those caramelized bits are what make people stop mid-conversation to ask about the recipe.
03 -
  • Always taste the dressing before mixing everything together—mayonnaise and sour cream can vary in saltiness, and you want to balance the seasoning in the dressing, not guess later.
  • Keep a second lime wedged in your pocket mentally; sometimes the salad needs one final squeeze right at the table, and giving people that choice makes them feel like they're part of the magic.
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