Description

Cotija Mexican Style Elote Pasta Salad is a vibrant and satisfying dish that combines smoky turkey bacon, creamy plant-based Cotija cheese, sweet roasted corn, tender pasta, and a zesty natural dressing. This refreshing and flavorful salad offers a perfect balance of textures and tastes, ideal for any season or occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Vegetables

8 oz rotini or penne pasta
1 1/2 cups sweet corn kernels
1/2 cup chopped red onion
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Protein and Cheese

4 slices smoked turkey bacon
1/2 cup plant-based Cotija cheese, crumbled

Dressing

1/2 cup natural mayonnaise
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
1 teaspoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and rinse briefly under cool water to stop cooking and keep pasta tender yet firm for the salad.
Prepare the Corn and Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the smoked turkey bacon until crispy. Remove it, let it cool, then chop into bite-sized pieces. Use the same skillet to lightly char or sauté the corn kernels until just starting to caramelize for a smoky-sweet boost.
Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together natural mayonnaise, fresh lime juice, apple cider vinegar (natural), vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and vibrant.
Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently toss the cooked pasta, charred corn, crispy turkey bacon, chopped red onion, fresh cilantro, and crumbled plant-based Cotija cheese together. Pour the dressing over and mix until every bite is coated with that zesty creaminess.
Chill and Serve: Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to let flavors meld. Give it a quick toss just before serving to refresh the texture and zest.

Notes

Rinse cooked pasta with cold water to keep it from sticking and retain the ideal bite.
Use fresh lime juice to achieve optimal brightness and acidity in the dressing.
Lightly sear corn kernels to add an irresistible roasted flavor.
Adjust seasonings gradually to suit your spice preferences.
Allow salad to rest in the fridge for flavor melding, but serve within 2 days for best freshness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Sautéing, Boiling
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 280
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 450mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 7g
Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Corn salad, Mexican pasta salad, plant-based cheese salad, smoky pasta salad, summer salad, creamy pasta salad