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Cotija Mexican Style Elote Pasta Salad

Cotija Mexican Style Elote Pasta Salad

  • Author: Jonathan
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Cotija Mexican Style Elote Pasta Salad is a vibrant and creamy dish combining tender pasta, freshly roasted corn, smoky spices, zesty lime, and a luscious creamy dressing topped with tangy Cotija (plant-based) cheese. Perfect for gatherings or a flavorful side, this salad brings the essence of Mexican street food to your table in a fresh pasta salad form.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Base

  • 2 cups cooked small pasta shapes (rotini or elbow macaroni)
  • 1 1/2 cups fresh corn kernels, roasted or grilled
  • 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1/2 cup chopped green onions

Dressing

  • 1/3 cup plant-based mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup plant-based yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Topping

  • 1/2 cup Cotija (plant-based) cheese

Instructions

  1. Roast the corn: Start by roasting fresh corn kernels on a skillet or grill until they develop a smoky char and rich golden color. This caramelization enhances natural sweetness and adds texture to the salad.
  2. Cook the pasta: Boil your chosen small pasta shapes until just al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking, then let it cool completely for an ideal salad texture.
  3. Prepare the dressing: In a mixing bowl, whisk together plant-based mayonnaise, plant-based yogurt, fresh lime juice, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
  4. Mix the salad: Toss the cooled pasta and roasted corn with the prepared dressing. Fold in chopped cilantro and green onions gently to ensure even distribution of flavors.
  5. Add Cotija (plant-based) cheese: Sprinkle the Cotija (plant-based) cheese over the salad. For extra creaminess, gently fold some cheese into the pasta as well.

Notes

  • Use fresh in-season corn for the best flavor and texture rather than frozen or canned.
  • Cook pasta al dente to maintain a pleasant bite and avoid mushiness.
  • Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
  • Adjust seasoning just before serving with additional salt or lime juice if needed.
  • Garnish with extra Cotija (plant-based) cheese and fresh cilantro for enhanced presentation and flavor.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Mexican, pasta salad, elote, Cotija cheese (plant-based), creamy dressing, summer salad, smoky, gluten-free

Find it online: https://familycookspot.com/cotija-mexican-style-elote-pasta-salad/