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Flavorful Elote Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe with Easy Tajin Lime Dressing

elote street corn pasta salad - featured image

A smoky-sweet pasta salad inspired by Mexican street corn, tossed with a creamy, tangy Tajin lime dressing. Perfect for summer gatherings and easy weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces rotini or bowtie pasta
  • 4 ears fresh corn, grilled or roasted (or thawed frozen corn)
  • ½ cup Cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta as substitute)
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup Greek yogurt (plain)
  • Juice of 2 limes (about 3 tablespoons)
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons Tajin seasoning
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions (9-11 minutes) until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool and prevent sticking. Set aside to drain thoroughly.
  2. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high. Husk the corn, brush lightly with oil, and grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until charred with smoky black spots. Let cool, then cut kernels off the cob. Alternatively, roast corn in a 425°F oven for 15-20 minutes.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lime juice, Tajin seasoning, and minced garlic. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, grilled corn kernels, crumbled Cotija cheese, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro. Pour dressing over and toss gently to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Stir gently before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.

Notes

Rinsing pasta after cooking prevents sticking and helps it absorb dressing better. If salad is too thick after chilling, stir in a splash of water or lime juice. For dairy-free, use vegan mayo and omit cheese or substitute with plant-based cheese. Frozen corn can be used if thawed and charred by sautéing or roasting. Salad holds well refrigerated for up to 3 days; stir before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: elote, street corn, pasta salad, Tajin lime dressing, summer salad, Mexican street food, easy pasta salad, grilled corn, creamy dressing