This fresh cilantro lime pasta salad is a burst of colors and flavors! It’s made with pasta, zesty lime, and fragrant cilantro, making it a perfect side dish or light meal.
I love how quick and simple it is to whip up. Toss everything together, and you have a tasty salad ready in no time! Plus, it goes great with grilled chicken or as a snack on its own. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I use bowtie pasta for its fun shape, but you can swap it for any pasta you like—penne or rotini work great too. Just keep in mind different shapes may hold the dressing differently.
Corn: Fresh corn makes the salad sweet and crisp, but canned corn works if you’re in a pinch. Make sure to drain it well to avoid extra moisture.
Avocado: The avocado adds creaminess. If you’re not an avocado fan or it’s out of season, try diced cucumber or even black beans for a touch of protein!
Dressings: I often use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier twist. It’s tangy and creamy! If you’re vegan, opt for a vegan mayo for a delicious alternative.
Cilantro: Cilantro is key for that fresh taste! If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley is a great substitute.
How Can I Get the Pasta Just Right?
Cooking pasta can be tricky, but here’s a foolproof method! First, get a pot of salted water boiling—this helps season the pasta. Add the farfalle and cook until al dente, usually a minute less than package instructions to keep it firm.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta quickly and rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking and cools it down for the salad.
- Don’t forget to combine the cooled pasta with your other ingredients promptly! This helps it soak up the flavors of the dressing.
Easy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels (about 1 ear of corn) or canned, drained
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- 1 lime, juiced and zested
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy cilantro lime pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In just under an hour, you’ll have a tasty, refreshing salad ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook Your Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta, and rinse it under cold water. This will cool it down and stop it from cooking further. Set it aside.
2. Mix the Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the halved cherry tomatoes, corn kernels, diced avocado, finely chopped red onion, and chopped cilantro. These fresh ingredients give your salad a bright, yummy taste!
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until the dressing is smooth and creamy. This dressing adds that delicious tangy flavor to the salad!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the cilantro lime dressing over the pasta and veggie mixture. Gently toss everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Give the salad a taste! You can add more salt, pepper, or lime juice if you think it needs it. This is a great time to adjust the flavors to your liking!
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors come together beautifully! When you’re ready to serve, garnish with extra cilantro if you’d like. Enjoy it cold or at room temperature as a refreshing side or light meal!
Enjoy this fresh, tangy, and creamy cilantro lime pasta salad—it’s perfect for warm days or any occasion!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While this recipe uses bowtie (farfalle) pasta, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or even whole wheat pasta. Just remember to adjust the cooking time as needed!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
Leftover cilantro lime pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that the avocado may brown slightly over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes, you can make this salad vegan by using a plant-based mayonnaise or Greek yogurt alternative. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan, so you can enjoy a delicious light meal without compromise!
What Can I Add for Extra Protein?
If you want to add some protein to your pasta salad, consider mixing in black beans, chickpeas, or grilled chicken. These options pair beautifully with the flavors and will make your salad more filling!
