This refreshing cilantro lime pasta salad is the perfect mix of flavors! It features pasta, fresh cilantro, zesty lime, and colorful veggies for a bright meal.
The lime brings a cheerful zing that makes this dish truly special. I love serving it chilled on hot days—it’s like a little burst of sunshine on my plate! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bowtie Pasta: Farfalle is lovely for this salad due to its fun shape. You can easily swap it for any pasta you have on hand, like fusilli, rotini, or even gluten-free options if needed!
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and color. If you don’t have them, diced regular tomatoes work too, just make sure to remove some juice to avoid sogginess.
Corn: Fresh corn gives a nice crunch. Canned or frozen corn can be used as substitutes—just drain or thaw them before adding.
Avocado: Avocado brings creaminess but can be substituted with diced cucumber or even olives for a different flavor. Note that avocados brown quickly, so add just before serving if you can.
Cilantro: A key flavor here! If you’re not a fan, feel free to swap it with parsley, which has a milder taste.
Mayonnaise/Sour Cream: You can use Greek yogurt instead of mayo or sour cream for a lighter version. Silken tofu also makes a great creamy dressing if you’re vegan!
How Do I Cook Pasta Perfectly for Salads?
Cooking pasta may seem simple, but there are a few tricks to get it just right for salads. You want it to be cooked, but not mushy. Here are the steps:
- Use plenty of salted water; this seasons the pasta as it cooks.
- Follow package instructions for cooking time, usually al dente is perfect (it’ll firm up a bit while cooling).
- Once drained, rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down quickly. This keeps it from becoming sticky.
Perfect pasta will provide a great base for your cilantro lime salad, maintaining its texture amidst the veggies!
Easy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Pasta: 8 oz (about 2 cups) bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- Veggies: 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels (about 1 ear of corn)
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 lime, zested and juiced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, you can whip it up quickly and let it cool while you get everything else ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente (this usually takes around 9-11 minutes). When done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it off quickly. Be sure to drain it well!
2. Combine the Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta along with the halved cherry tomatoes, fresh corn kernels, diced avocado, finely chopped red onion, and chopped cilantro. It’s colorful and vibrant already!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime zest, lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Keep whisking until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
4. Toss It All Together:
Pour the cilantro lime dressing over the pasta and veggie mixture. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated. Make sure each piece is dressed; that’s how you get the best flavor!
5. Taste and Adjust:
Take a moment to taste your salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or even a bit more lime juice to suit your taste.
6. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the bowl and chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together for a tastier result.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, serve the pasta salad cold or at room temperature. Feel free to garnish with extra cilantro for a pretty presentation. Enjoy your light and refreshing meal!
This easy cilantro lime pasta salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a quick and tasty lunch. Everyone will love it!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta in This Salad?
Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works just as well in this recipe. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package for the best results. The dressing and veggies will add tons of flavor!
How Do I Prevent Avocado from Browning?
To keep your avocado fresh, add it just before serving. If you need to prep it ahead of time, you can toss it with a little lime juice to slow down the browning process.
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this salad vegan by substituting the mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan options. You can use avocado or hummus as a creamy base, and it’ll taste delicious!
How Long Will Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Leftover pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a gentle toss before serving to refresh the flavors!
