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Zesty Elote Pasta Salad

Zesty Elote Pasta Salad – Flavor-Packed Comfort for All!

Zesty Elote Pasta Salad is a delightful twist that brings vibrant flavors of street food right to your kitchen, perfect for gatherings!
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz pasta Any shape like fusilli or penne
For the Creamy Dressing
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise Or Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative
  • 1/2 cup sour cream Plain yogurt can also work as a substitute
  • 2 tbsp lime juice Fresh is best, but bottled is acceptable
  • 1 tsp chili powder Adjust to your liking, or use fresh jalapeños
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder Feel free to swap in fresh minced garlic
For the Salad
  • 1 cup corn Fresh, canned, or frozen; charring enhances flavor
  • 1/4 cup cilantro Can be omitted or replaced with parsley
  • 1/4 cup red onion Can substitute with green onions for a milder option
For the Cheesy Finish
  • 1/2 cup Cotija cheese Feta or queso fresco can be substitutes
  • 1/2 cup cheddar cheese Choose between mild or sharp

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 12 oz of your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to halt cooking, drizzle with olive oil, and set aside to cool completely.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/2 cup sour cream, and 2 tbsp of freshly squeezed lime juice. Whisk until smooth and stir in 1 tsp of chili powder and 1/2 tsp of garlic powder. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
  3. Fold in 1 cup of corn and 1/4 cup each of chopped cilantro and diced red onion into the dressing. Mix gently until well coated.
  4. Carefully incorporate the cooled pasta into the dressing and vegetable mixture. Gently toss until the pasta is well coated.
  5. Crumble 1/2 cup of Cotija cheese and sprinkle in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the salad. Give it one final gentle toss to combine.
  6. Transfer to a serving bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Chill for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavors. Balance the dressing with milk or lime juice if too thick. Consider grilling the corn for added smokiness.

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