This bright and zesty cilantro lime pasta salad is perfect for warm days. It’s filled with fresh veggies, tender pasta, and a tasty lime dressing that brings everything together!
I love making this salad for picnics; it’s super easy to whip up and tastes great chilled. Plus, who can resist that refreshing lime flavor? It’s a crowd-pleaser for sure! 🌿🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I use bow tie pasta for fun shapes, but any pasta works! You could swap it for penne, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta if needed.
Corn: Fresh corn is sweet and crunchy here. If fresh isn’t available, you can use canned or frozen corn. Just drain and thaw the frozen version before adding.
Avocado: Ripe avocado adds creaminess. If you’re not a fan, consider substituting with diced cucumber for a fresh crunch instead.
Greek Yogurt: This gives a creamy texture. You can use sour cream or even a vegan yogurt as a substitute. If looking for a lighter option, try a vinaigrette instead.
Cilantro: The herb packs in flavor. If you’re not a cilantro lover, parsley or even basil can work well – they bring their own fresh taste!
How Do I Cook Pasta Perfectly for Salad?
Cooking pasta for salads takes a bit of know-how to keep it just right! Here’s how:
- Start by boiling salted water. This enhances flavor during cooking.
- Add your pasta and cook until al dente, which means it’s firm to the bite — check about a minute before the package says.
- Once done, drain it and rinse quickly under cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools it down for the salad.
- Let the pasta drain fully to prevent a soggy salad.
Following these tips helps the pasta stay firm and not clump together in your salad!
Easy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz bow tie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels (from about 2 ears of corn)
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- Juice of 2 limes
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing pasta salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. With just a bit of your time, you’ll have a tasty dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a pot of salted water to boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down quickly. Set it aside in a large bowl.
2. Prepare the Corn:
While the pasta is cooking, remove the kernels from the corn cobs. If you’d like, you can sauté the corn in a small pan over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes to bring out its sweetness. Let it cool before adding it to the bowl.
3. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In the bowl with the cooled pasta, add the halved cherry tomatoes, corn kernels, diced avocado, finely chopped red onion, and chopped cilantro. Mix everything gently to combine!
4. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), fresh lime juice and zest, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, and olive oil. Season your dressing with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine Everything:
Pour the cilantro lime dressing over the pasta mixture. Toss gently until everything is coated nicely in the dressing.
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the pasta salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps all the delicious flavors meld together. When you’re ready to serve, give it a quick stir and, if desired, garnish with extra cilantro or lime wedges for a fresh touch!
This pasta salad bursts with fresh flavors—creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, sweet corn, and zesty cilantro lime dressing—making it a refreshing and colorful side or light meal!
FAQ for Easy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the bow tie pasta with any gluten-free pasta of your choice. Just cook it according to the package instructions and follow the rest of the recipe as is.
How Do I Store Leftover Pasta Salad?
Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, but the avocado may brown a bit; you can add a splash of lime juice before serving to help keep it fresh!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance! Just follow all the steps and store it in the refrigerator. Allowing it to chill overnight enhances the flavors for a delicious taste at your gathering.
What Can I Substitute for Avocado?
If you’re not a fan of avocado, consider using diced cucumber for a refreshing crunch or shredded carrots for added sweetness. Both options will keep the salad light and delicious!
