This refreshing cilantro lime pasta salad is the perfect side dish for any meal. It’s packed with flavors from fresh cilantro, zesty lime, and colorful veggies. Yum!
I love how quick and easy this salad is to whip up. Just toss everything together, and it’s ready to go! Perfect for picnics or a light lunch. Don’t forget to sneak in a few extra lime slices! 🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Bowtie pasta (farfalle) is perfect for this salad because its shape holds the dressing well. You can swap it with rotini or penne if needed; they work just as nicely.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is key for the flavor! If you’re not a fan, parsley offers a milder taste. You can also try basil for a completely different twist.
Avocado: Ripe avocados add creaminess. If you’re avoiding avocados, you can use diced cucumbers or skip it altogether for a lighter salad.
Dressing: For a lighter version, replace mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt. It keeps the creaminess but cuts down the fat. Adjust lime juice to your taste for more zing!
How Do I Cook Pasta Perfectly?
Cooking pasta to perfection is essential for this salad to avoid mushiness. Follow these steps:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Check for al dente by tasting a piece—there should still be a slight bite to it.
- Drain the pasta and rinse immediately under cold water to stop the cooking process. This also helps keep the pasta from clumping.
Remember, a little salt in the boiling water enhances the pasta’s flavor. Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh sweet corn kernels (or frozen, thawed)
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill. In just under an hour, you’ll have a refreshing dish that’s perfect for eating right away or for meal prep throughout the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—firm but cooked through. After cooking, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water. This will stop the cooking and help cool it down quickly. Once drained well, transfer the pasta to a large mixing bowl.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In the bowl with the pasta, carefully add in the halved cherry tomatoes, sweet corn kernels, diced avocado, chopped red onion, and half of the chopped cilantro. This colorful mix will create a beautiful salad!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix it well until you have a smooth and creamy dressing.
4. Mix and Coat:
Pour the cilantro lime dressing over the pasta and veggie mixture. Gently toss everything together to make sure all the ingredients are evenly coated. Be careful when mixing so that the avocado stays intact and isn’t mushy.
5. Add Garnish:
Sprinkle the remaining chopped cilantro on top for a burst of extra flavor and color.
6. Chill and Serve:
For the best taste, cover the pasta salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This lets the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, you can enjoy it cold or at room temperature.
Enjoy this light and tangy cilantro lime pasta salad that perfectly combines fresh veggies and a creamy dressing with a delightful zesty lime kick!
FAQs for Easy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute the bowtie pasta with any gluten-free pasta variety, such as rice pasta or quinoa pasta. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions for the specific type of gluten-free pasta you choose.
How Do I Keep Avocado from Browning?
To prevent the avocado from browning, try adding a little extra lime juice to it before mixing into the salad. You can also serve the salad shortly after making it or add the avocado right before serving to keep it fresh.
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the pasta and the dressing ahead of time, storing them separately in the fridge. Mix everything together and add the avocado just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to meld, but keep in mind the avocado may soften. Give it a good stir before enjoying again!
