This colorful pasta salad brings a bright burst of flavor with fresh cilantro and zesty lime. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for any picnic or potluck!
I love how quick it is to whip up—just cook the pasta, toss in the veggies, and mix with a tasty dressing. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens! 🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I like bowtie (farfalle) for fun texture and shape. If you don’t have it, feel free to use any pasta you have on hand—penne, rotini, or even whole wheat pasta works great!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds the best flavor here. If you’re not a fan, try parsley or basil for a different taste. They won’t have the same kick, but they still work nicely!
Avocado: Ripe avocado gives creaminess. If you can’t find a good one, consider using diced cucumber instead for crunch or omit it altogether!
Sour Cream/Greek Yogurt: Either of these gives a creamy dressing. If you want it dairy-free, use a plant-based yogurt or homemade cashew crema as a nice substitute.
How Do I Get the Pasta Just Right?
Cooking pasta to the perfect al dente is crucial to avoid it becoming mushy in the salad. Follow these tips:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil before adding the pasta.
- Cook the pasta for the time indicated on the package, but check for doneness a minute earlier. You want it to be firm yet tender.
- Once done, drain and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking and cool it down quickly.
This method helps keep the pasta from soaking up too much dressing and ensures each bite is perfectly tender!
Easy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Veggies:
- 8 oz (about 2 1/2 cups) bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels (from about 1 ear of corn)
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
For the Cilantro Lime Dressing:
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So, total time: around 45 minutes! It’s easy to put together and perfect for meal prep!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (you want it firm but tender). Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool.
2. Make the Dressing:
While the pasta is cooking, let’s whip up the dressing! In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), fresh lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, fresh corn kernels, diced avocado, finely chopped red onion, and the chopped cilantro. Give it a gentle toss to combine all the ingredients.
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the cilantro lime dressing over the pasta and veggie mix. Toss everything together carefully, making sure that the dressing evenly coats the pasta and veggies.
5. Chill and Serve:
For the best flavor, cover the salad and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. When you’re ready to serve, garnish with extra chopped cilantro if you like. Enjoy your refreshing and tasty cilantro lime pasta salad!
This salad is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it as a side dish or add some grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a main dish. Bon appétit! 🥗
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Easy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for bowtie (farfalle) pasta, you can substitute any type of pasta you have on hand, such as penne, fusilli, or whole wheat pasta. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type!
What If I Don’t Like Cilantro?
No worries! If cilantro isn’t your thing, you can replace it with parsley or even fresh basil for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that it will alter the taste a bit, but it will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta salad can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but it’s best to eat it within a couple of days for optimal freshness!
Can I Add More Veggies?
Yes! Feel free to add any of your favorite veggies, like bell peppers, cucumbers, or even black beans for added protein. Just make sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces for easier mixing and eating!
