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Cotija Mexican Style Elote Pasta Salad

Cotija Mexican Style Elote Pasta Salad for Summer Bliss

Enjoy a vibrant Cotija Mexican Style Elote Pasta Salad with sweet roasted corn, tangy cotija cheese, and creamy dressing, perfect for summer gatherings!
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 cups
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 310

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz rotini pasta opt for gluten-free pasta if necessary
For the Roasted Corn
  • 4 1/2 cups corn (roasted kernels) use fresh sweet corn or frozen for convenience
For the Creamy Dressing
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt (2% fat) can be replaced with sour cream for a twist
  • 3 tbsp olive oil mayonnaise swap with vegan mayo for a plant-based option
  • 2 medium limes (zested and juiced) lemon juice is a suitable substitute
  • 3/4 tsp chili powder adjust to taste, smoked paprika can also enhance flavor
  • 3/4 tsp smoked paprika regular paprika can be used if needed
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder fresh minced garlic for a more intense taste
  • 1/4 tsp ground cumin can be omitted without major impact on flavor
  • 1/2 tsp salt adjust according to preference
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper can be omitted for a milder salad
  • 1 tsp honey or agave nectar omit for sugar-free versions
For the Salad Mix
  • 1/2 cup cotija cheese (crumbled) use feta as a substitute if needed
  • 1/2 red onion finely diced green onions can be used for a milder taste
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro (chopped) parsley can be used as a substitute
  • 1-2 jalapeños (seeded and finely diced) adjust based on your heat preference

Equipment

  • large pot
  • baking sheet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Finely dice the red onion and jalapeños, placing each in separate bowls. Chop the fresh cilantro and set it aside.
  2. Zest and juice the two medium limes, capturing the zest for dressing and discarding the rest.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add rotini pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and drizzle with olive oil.
  4. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread corn kernels on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until slightly charred.
  5. Allow the cooked pasta to cool completely to room temperature, about 10-15 minutes.
  6. In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, olive oil mayonnaise, lime zest, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and honey. Whisk until smooth.
  7. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, roasted corn, diced onions, chopped cilantro, crumbled cotija cheese, and diced jalapeños. Toss gently.
  8. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and mix everything together to coat evenly.
  9. Let the salad rest for about 10-15 minutes at room temperature to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 310kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 8mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 5gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 8mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, but enjoy fresh for best texture.

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