Creamy Zesty Elote Pasta (Ready-to-Print Version)
A creamy and zesty pasta tossed with grilled corn, smoky spices, and fresh lime dressing.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Pasta
01 -
1 pound short pasta (penne or rotini)
→ Vegetables & Herbs
02 -
1 head romaine lettuce, shredded
03 -
2 cups grilled corn kernels (from 3-4 fresh ears)
04 -
1/2 cup fresh basil, torn
05 -
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
06 -
1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
07 -
1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
08 -
1 whole avocado, diced
09 -
1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
10 -
2 cloves garlic, grated
→ Dairy & Eggs
11 -
4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
12 -
1/3 cup sour cream
13 -
3/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
14 -
1/2 cup spicy cheddar cheese, diced
15 -
4 tablespoons salted butter
→ Condiments & Spices
16 -
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
17 -
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
18 -
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
19 -
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
20 -
2 tablespoons chili powder
21 -
1/2 to 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper, adjust to taste
22 -
Salt and black pepper, to taste
# Step-by-Step Guide:
01 -
Prepare pasta in boiling water according to package instructions until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes.
02 -
In a large serving bowl, combine room temperature cream cheese, sour cream, olive oil, grated garlic, chopped chives, and crumbled cotija cheese. Mix until smooth and fully incorporated.
03 -
Drain pasta immediately and toss with the creamy mixture. Add shredded romaine, grilled corn kernels, torn basil, chopped cilantro, diced red onion, diced red bell pepper, and diced spicy cheddar cheese. Toss to combine evenly.
04 -
In a small skillet over medium heat, melt salted butter until golden and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Stir in smoked paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper, cooking for exactly 60 seconds to release the spices' aroma. Remove from heat.
05 -
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and fresh lime juice until smooth.
06 -
Gently fold diced avocado into the pasta salad. Drizzle the lime mayonnaise dressing over the mixture and spoon warm chili butter on top just before serving.
# Handy Tips:
01 -
Adjust cayenne pepper according to desired spiciness.