How long does Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. However, for the freshest flavor and best texture, it's recommended to enjoy the salad within 24-48 hours . After that, the dressing may thicken, and the pasta can become slightly soggy as it absorbs the creamy sauce.

Can I make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad the night before?

Absolutely! In fact, making your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad the night before can enhance its flavors as everything has time to meld. Just be sure to store it in the fridge and give it a gentle stir before serving. For best results, keep crunchy toppings like bacon bits or tortilla strips separate and add them right before serving to preserve their texture.

What's the best pasta for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Short, sturdy pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or small shells work best in Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad . These shapes hold onto the creamy street corn dressing beautifully and maintain their bite after chilling. Avoid delicate pasta varieties, which can break down and become mushy.

Is Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad served hot or cold?

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is traditionally served cold or at room temperature , making it perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, and BBQs. Serving it cold allows the creamy, tangy dressing to shine and gives the salad a refreshing, satisfying texture. If you're in a hurry, you can serve it slightly warm, but it's best enjoyed chilled.

How do I make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad spicier?

To add extra heat to your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad , stir in diced jalapeños, serrano peppers, chipotle powder, or a dash of hot sauce into the dressing. For a smoky-spicy flavor, smoked paprika or chipotle in adobo sauce works wonders. You can also sprinkle extra chili powder on top before serving for a bolder kick.

Can I use canned corn instead of grilled corn for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Yes, you can use canned corn in a pinch, but for the most authentic Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad , grilled or roasted corn is highly recommended. If you're using canned corn, try sautéing it in a dry or lightly oiled skillet over high heat until slightly charred. This will give your salad that essential smoky depth that defines this dish.

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad - The Best 1 Fiesta Dish!

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz short pasta (rotini, penne, or shells)
3 cups grilled or roasted corn kernels
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese, plus extra for garnish
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
2 green onions, sliced
Lime wedges, for serving

Optional add-ins: diced avocado, crispy bacon, jalapeños, black beans, or grilled shrimp

Instructions

Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Rinse under cold water and drain well.
In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, garlic, chili powder, and smoked paprika until smooth.
In a large mixing bowl, combine pasta and grilled corn.
Pour the dressing over the pasta and corn. Toss until evenly coated.
Stir in cotija cheese, cilantro, and green onions.
Garnish with extra cheese, chili powder, and lime wedges before serving.
Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Add optional toppings like avocado or bacon right before serving for extra texture and taste.

Notes

For the best smoky flavor, use freshly grilled corn on the cob. To keep the salad fresh and vibrant, store crunchy toppings separately and add them just before serving. Letting the salad chill for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Author: Amillia
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Salad, Side Dish
Method: No Bake, Stove Top
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired, Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 350
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 550mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, elote pasta salad, summer side dish, BBQ pasta salad, creamy corn salad, Mexican salad recipe