Name: Zesty Jalapeno Corn Coleslaw for Your Next BBQ Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 145 min
Ingredients: ½ cup mayonnaise (can substitute with Greek yogurt); ½ cup sour cream (can be swapped with full-fat yogurt); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 unit lime (juiced); ½ teaspoon chili powder (adjust for spice); ½ teaspoon ground cumin; ½ teaspoon paprika; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (omit for milder flavor); ½ teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste); ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 12 oz ditalini pasta (substitute with any short pasta); 16 oz grilled or roasted corn (fresh is ideal); ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro; ¼ cup red onion (finely diced); ⅓ cup cotija cheese (can substitute with feta)

Standing at the grill, a memory flickers—the unmistakable aroma of summer corn roasting, mingling with the laughter of friends and family. I knew I had to bring that vibrant essence into the kitchen, resulting in my Easy Elote Pasta Salad. This delightful dish, inspired by the beloved Mexican street corn, is a game-changer for your BBQs and potlucks, requiring less than 30 minutes to prepare! Not only does it blend creamy textures with the crunchy freshness of vegetables, but it also celebrates the sweet, smoky flavor of grilled corn. The perfect balance has never tasted so good, and you’ll love how easily it can become a favorite side for any gathering. So, are you ready to elevate your summer dining experience and impress your guests with this irresistible pasta salad?

Why Is This Pasta Salad a Must-Try?

Vibrant flavors: Experience sweet, smoky grilled corn paired with a zesty chili-lime dressing that transports your taste buds straight to a summer fiesta.

Quick and easy: Whip up this delicious dish in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute BBQ invites.

Crowd-pleaser: This Easy Elote Pasta Salad is bound to impress both friends and family at any gathering, making it a staple for potlucks and summer cookouts.

Versatile options: Feel free to customize with your favorite short pasta or add more veggies like bell peppers for extra crunch—your imagination is the only limit!

Creamy comfort: The delightful creamy texture with a hint of spiciness is irresistible; it’s a comforting twist on traditional pasta salads that everyone will love.

Looking for more delightful summer recipes? Don’t miss out on my Street Corn Chicken for a complete grilling experience!

Elote Pasta Salad Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to whip up this tasty dish!

For the Dressing

Mayonnaise – A creamy base; for a lighter option, substitute with Greek yogurt.
Sour Cream – Adds tang and richness; can be swapped with full-fat yogurt.
Garlic Cloves (2, minced) – Infuses aromatic intensity; opt for fresh garlic for the best flavor.
Juice from 1 Lime – Brightens the salad; consider adding lime zest for an extra zest.
Chili Powder (½ tsp) – Provides warmth and earthiness; adjust according to your taste for spice.
Ground Cumin (½ tsp) – Adds a warm, earthy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Paprika (½ tsp) – Contributes smokiness and depth for a robust flavor.
Cayenne Pepper (¼ tsp) – Offers a bit of heat; feel free to omit if you prefer a milder flavor.
Kosher Salt (½ tsp) – Enhances all the other flavors; adjust to your taste.
Black Pepper (¼ tsp) – Adds a subtle heat to balance the creamy dressing.

For the Pasta and Corn

Ditalini Pasta (12 oz) – Holds the dressing well while providing a lovely chewy texture; substitute with any short pasta like fusilli.
Grilled or Roasted Corn (16 oz) – Sweetness and texture; fresh corn is ideal, but you can use canned or frozen, sautéing for extra flavor.

For Freshness and Crunch

Chopped Fresh Cilantro (¼ cup) – Adds a herbaceous note that brightens the dish.
Red Onion (¼ cup, finely diced) – Provides crunch with a slight sharpness.
Cotija Cheese (⅓ cup, crumbled) – Adds creamy saltiness; can be substituted with feta or queso fresco.

This Elote Pasta Salad is bound to become a new favorite at your gatherings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Elote Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add 12 ounces of ditalini pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions, which typically takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process, ensuring a perfectly chewy texture for your Easy Elote Pasta Salad.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn
While the pasta is cooking, grill or pan-sear 16 ounces of fresh corn until it is beautifully charred and tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If using canned or frozen corn, sauté until heated through and golden. Allow the corn to cool slightly, then cut the kernels off the cob or just mix in the sautéed corn to add that sweet, smoky touch to your salad.

Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together ½ cup of mayonnaise, ½ cup of sour cream, two minced garlic cloves, the juice of one lime, and all the spices—½ teaspoon each of chili powder, ground cumin, and paprika, along with ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper, ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy, creating a zesty dressing that will coat your Easy Elote Pasta Salad perfectly.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, charred corn, ¼ cup of finely diced red onion, ¼ cup of chopped fresh cilantro, and ⅓ cup of crumbled cotija cheese. Pour the creamy dressing over the mixture and gently toss everything together until well coated; the vibrant colors and fresh ingredients will bring this Easy Elote Pasta Salad to life.

Step 5: Serve or Chill
You can serve the Easy Elote Pasta Salad immediately for that fresh taste, or let it chill in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours to enhance the flavors. If you wish, garnish with extra cotija cheese, a sprinkle of lime zest, and a drizzle of olive oil before serving, giving your dish that beautiful finishing touch for your gathering.

Easy Elote Pasta Salad Variations

Customize your Easy Elote Pasta Salad with these delightful twists and substitutions that will ignite your culinary creativity!

Greek Yogurt: Swap the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy dressing that still delivers on creaminess.
This replacement also adds protein, making your salad even healthier while keeping all that flavor intact.
Vegetarian: Omit the cotija cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
This way, everyone can enjoy the deliciousness, bringing smiles to every gathering without restrictions!
Extra Heat: Add diced jalapeños to the salad for a spicy kick that packs a punch!
They not only bring the heat, but they also add a vibrant color that will attract curious taste buds.
Mixed Veggies: Incorporate diced bell peppers or crisp radishes for added crunch and color.
Colorful vegetables make your salad visually appealing and full of nutrients, creating a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
Quinoa Twist: For added protein and a gluten-free option, substitute ditalini with cooked quinoa.
This twist not only brings a unique taste but also enhances the salad’s nutritional profile without compromising texture.
Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika to amplify the depth of flavor.
This adds a wonderful smokiness that complements the grilled corn beautifully, bringing a rich taste to every bite.
Creamy Avocado: Toss in diced avocado for a rich, buttery texture that elevates your pasta salad.
The creaminess of avocado blends seamlessly with the dressing, making each bite even more delightful.

Looking for more delicious inspirations? Pair your Easy Elote Pasta Salad with my Street Corn Chicken for a complete meal that celebrates summer!

How to Store and Freeze Elote Pasta Salad

Fridge: Store your Easy Elote Pasta Salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving, as the flavors may mellow over time.

Freezer: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the salad for up to 1 month. However, note that the creaminess may change slightly, so reintroduce some fresh dressing when serving.

Reheating: If chilled from the fridge, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to bring it back to life. Enjoy it cold for the best taste!

Prep Ahead: For parties or potlucks, you can prep the dressing and cook the pasta in advance. Assemble everything together just before serving for the freshest flavor in your Elote Pasta Salad.

Expert Tips for Easy Elote Pasta Salad

Chill for Flavor: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for 1-2 hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully; don’t rush this step!
Perfectly Cooked Pasta: Make sure your ditalini pasta is al dente—overcooked pasta can lead to a mushy texture in your Easy Elote Pasta Salad.
Enhance with Freshness: Add diced avocado or more fresh herbs for a burst of color and flavor—customize to your palate!
Grill for Sweetness: Grilling the corn heightens its sweetness; if using frozen corn, make sure to sauté until golden for richness.
Adjust the Spice: Feel free to tweak the cayenne pepper to your desired spice level; start with less and add more if you like it hot!

Make Ahead Options

Busy home cooks will love how easy it is to prepare this Easy Elote Pasta Salad ahead of time! You can cook the pasta and grill the corn up to 24 hours in advance. Just store the cooled pasta in an airtight container, and refrigerate the corn separately to maintain its crispness. The dressing can be whisked together and kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the prepped ingredients with the dressing and garnish with cotija cheese. This way, you’ll have a vibrant, crowd-pleasing side dish ready in no time, just as delicious as when made fresh!

What to Serve with Easy Elote Pasta Salad

Looking to create a memorable meal around this vibrant pasta dish? Enhance your dining experience with these delightful pairings.

Grilled Chicken: Juicy, marinated chicken adds a smoky depth, complementing the sweet corn beautifully. It’s a classic choice for any backyard BBQ.
Spicy Shrimp Tacos: Crispy tacos filled with spicy shrimp introduces a zesty kick, echoing the flavors of the Easy Elote Pasta Salad perfectly.
Fresh Guacamole: Creamy, homemade guacamole offers a refreshing contrast and a burst of flavor that pairs well with the pasta’s creamy texture.
Chili Lime Corn on the Cob: Bring the fiesta to your table by serving this classic side dish. The corn enhances the elote theme, bringing harmony to your meal.
Black Bean Salsa: This hearty salsa, with its mix of beans and fresh veggies, adds protein, color, and a burst of flavor that complements the salad.
Lemonade or Sparkling Water: Bright and refreshing drinks are a must; a zesty lemonade or bubbly sparkling water cleanses the palate and balances the meal beautifully.
Coconut Flan: As a sweet finish, this creamy dessert provides a luscious end to your BBQ feast, with its subtle sweetness echoing the corn’s natural flavor.

Easy Elote Pasta Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I select fresh corn for my Easy Elote Pasta Salad?
Absolutely! Choose fresh corn with bright green husks and tight, plump kernels. The ears should feel heavy for their size. Avoid corn with dark spots or dryness, as these can indicate age. If fresh corn isn’t available, canned or frozen corn can work—just sauté it to enhance its flavor.

What is the best way to store leftover Easy Elote Pasta Salad?
Store your Easy Elote Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir the salad well before serving to revitalize the flavors, as they may mellow over time. This pasta salad is best enjoyed cold, making it a refreshing choice for leftovers.

Can I freeze Easy Elote Pasta Salad?
While freezing is possible, I recommend that you eat it fresh for the best experience. If you must freeze it, place the salad in an airtight container and it will keep for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and consider adding a bit of fresh dressing to restore its creamy texture.

What if my pasta is too mushy?
Oh no! If your ditalini pasta ends up overcooked, I recommend using it in a baked dish instead. You could mix it with a creamy sauce and bake it with cheese on top, creating a different comfort food altogether. For future reference, aim for al dente pasta. Remember to rinse it under cold water immediately after cooking to halt the cooking process.

Is this Easy Elote Pasta Salad suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! If you’re cautious about dairy, you can substitute mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan or dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream or olive oil-based dressings. For gluten-free diets, swap ditalini with your favorite gluten-free pasta option. As always, check for specific allergens according to personal dietary needs!

How can I enhance the flavor of my pasta salad?
Very! To elevate the flavors, let your Easy Elote Pasta Salad chill in the fridge for 1-2 hours before serving. This allows all the ingredients to meld beautifully. You can also add more spices, such as diced jalapeños for an extra kick or extra lime juice for more zest. Don’t be shy; customize it to your taste!