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High Protein Elote Pasta Salad

High Protein Elote Pasta Salad for Your Summer BBQ

Enjoy a deliciously unique High Protein Elote Pasta Salad, perfect for summer gatherings and packed with flavors.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Cooling Time 15 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Pasta Use protein-enriched pasta like Barilla Protein+.
For the Salad
  • 4.5 cups Corn Fresh, frozen, or canned corn, charred for flavor.
  • 0.5 cup Cotija Cheese Can substitute with feta cheese.
  • 0.5 count Red Onion Finely diced; yellow onion can be used.
  • 0.5 cup Cilantro Chopped; parsley can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 count Jalapeño Diced; seeds removed for mildness.
For the Dressing
  • 0.75 cup Greek Yogurt Fage 2% is recommended.
  • 2 tbsp Mayonnaise Best to use a brand like Hellmann's.
  • 1 count Lime Zest and juice are integral for flavor.
  • 0.75 tsp Chili Powder Adds warmth.
  • 0.75 tsp Smoked Paprika Gives a smoky undertone.
  • 0.5 tsp Garlic Powder Adds savory notes.
  • 0.25 tsp Ground Cumin Contributes earthy flavor.
  • 0.5 tsp Salt Enhances flavor.
  • 0.25 tsp Black Pepper Adds mild heat.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • Colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the corn. Allow it to char undisturbed for 3-4 minutes, then stir for another 1-2 minutes until heated through. Cool after charring.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lime zest, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
  4. In a large bowl, mix the cooled pasta with charred corn, diced red onion, diced jalapeño, chopped cilantro, and cotija cheese. Fold gently.
  5. Drizzle dressing over the mixture and toss until well coated. Cover and let rest for 10-15 minutes at room temperature before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 14gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For the best result, cool the pasta completely before mixing with the dressing. Store dressing separately if making ahead to keep salad fresh.

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