ImagineĀ al dente pasta tossed with charred sweet corn, creamy cotija cheese, and aĀ chipotle-lime dressingĀ thatās tangy, smoky, and just a little spicyāthis isĀ elote meets pasta salad, perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or summer picnics!
Perfect for:
⢠Backyard cookouts & pool parties
⢠Meal prep (flavors get better overnight!)
⢠When you want a showstopper side with minimal effort
š Why This Pasta Salad Steals the Show
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Ā All the flavors of Mexican street cornĀ ā In easy-to-serve pasta form!
ā
Ā Creamy + crunchy + smokyĀ ā The ultimate texture combo
ā
Ā No mayoĀ ā Uses Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy twist
ā
Ā Crowd-pleasingĀ ā Vegetarian-friendly (add grilled chicken for protein!)
š Ingredients (Bold & Fresh!)
š For the Salad:
- 12 oz short pastaĀ (rotini, penne, or fusilli)
- 4 ears corn, grilled & kernels cut offĀ (or 3 cups frozen/thawed corn)
- 1 cup cotija cheese, crumbledĀ (sub feta if needed)
- ½ red onion, finely diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded & minced (optional for heat)
- ½ cup cilantro, chopped
š„£ For the Dressing:
- ½ cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp chipotle in adobo, mincedĀ (adjust for spice!)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 garlic clove, grated
- ½ tsp cumin
- Salt & pepper to taste
š Pro Tip:Ā Char corn in a dry skillet for extra smoky flavor!