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Creamy Elote Pasta Salad Recipe with Cotija Cheese and Tajin

creamy elote pasta salad - featured image
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A creamy and flavorful pasta salad inspired by Mexican street corn, featuring Cotija cheese, Tajin seasoning, and a tangy lime dressing. Perfect for potlucks, summer cookouts, or a quick lunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz rotini or fusilli pasta
  • 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (thawed)
  • ½ cup crumbled Cotija cheese
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • Juice of 1 large lime
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Tajin seasoning, plus more for garnish
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz rotini and cook according to package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool it down. Set aside to drain thoroughly.
  2. If using fresh corn, cut kernels off the cob. For frozen, thaw completely and drain any excess moisture.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine ½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup sour cream, juice of 1 lime, minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon Tajin seasoning. Whisk together until smooth and creamy.
  4. Add the drained pasta and corn kernels into the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
  5. Fold in ½ cup crumbled Cotija cheese, 2 sliced green onions, and ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
  7. Before serving, sprinkle a little extra Tajin and Cotija on top for a pop of color and flavor. Give it a quick toss and serve chilled.

Notes

Do not overcook pasta; rinse under cold water to stop cooking and keep pasta firm. Drain corn well to avoid watery salad. Adjust creaminess by adding more mayo or sour cream if desired. Chill at least 30 minutes for best flavor. For gluten-free, use rice or quinoa pasta. Vegan versions can use vegan mayo, sour cream, and tofu or vegan cheese instead of Cotija.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta salad, elote, Cotija cheese, Tajin, creamy pasta salad, Mexican street corn, summer salad, easy pasta salad

Find it online: https://twinkletaste.com/creamy-elote-pasta-salad-recipe-with-cotija-cheese-and-tajin-easy-and-delicious/