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Cotija Mexican Style Elote Pasta Salad

Cotija Mexican Style Elote Pasta Salad

  • Author: Christopher
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Cotija Mexican Style Elote Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines smoky turkey bacon, creamy plant-based Cotija cheese, fresh corn, and a tangy dressing. Perfect for quick meals, potlucks, or festive occasions, this salad blends Mexican street food inspiration with comforting pasta salad textures for a refreshing and hearty experience.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Vegetables

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni or small shells pasta
  • 1 cup fresh corn kernels
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Protein and Cheese

  • 4 slices smoky turkey bacon, cooked and chopped
  • 1/2 cup creamy Cotija (plant-based) cheese, crumbled

Dressing

  • 1/2 cup plant-based mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice (natural)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (natural)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta completely. Set aside to drain thoroughly.
  2. Prepare the turkey bacon and corn: While the pasta is cooking, crisp up the turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until browned and crunchy. Remove and drain on a paper towel, then chop into bite-sized pieces. For fresh corn, blanch briefly in boiling water or use raw for maximum crunch.
  3. Mix the creamy dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together plant-based mayonnaise, lime juice (natural), vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, chili powder (natural), salt, and pepper until smooth.
  4. Combine all ingredients: In a large bowl, gently toss the cooled pasta with corn, turkey bacon, chopped green onions, cilantro, and creamy Cotija (plant-based) cheese. Pour the dressing over and stir until evenly coated.
  5. Chill and serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Stir gently before serving and garnish as desired.

Notes

  • Cook pasta al dente to prevent mushiness.
  • Rinse pasta thoroughly under cold water to stop cooking and keep it refreshing.
  • Use fresh cilantro and green onions for bright, authentic flavor.
  • Adjust seasoning with salt, lime juice, or chili powder to taste.
  • Balance textures by mixing crunchy, creamy, and smoky ingredients.
  • Serve chilled to enhance refreshing notes in the salad.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: No baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: pasta salad, Mexican style, elote salad, Cotija cheese (plant-based), turkey bacon, creamy dressing, potluck dish, fresh corn, smoky flavor

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