This bright and zesty cilantro lime pasta salad is perfect for a light meal or side dish. With fresh veggies and a tangy dressing, it’s all about those lively flavors!
You can’t help but feel cheerful when digging into this salad. Just imagine it with your favorite protein on a warm day—yum! I love having it ready for picnics or lunches.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using farfalle for its fun butterfly shape. You can swap it for any pasta you enjoy, like penne or fusilli. Whole grain or gluten-free pasta work just as well if needed.
Corn: Fresh corn is delicious, but canned or frozen corn makes it quick and easy. If you’re looking for a twist, try black beans instead for added protein!
Avocado: Fresh avocado adds creaminess. If you can’t find ripe ones, diced cucumber is a great alternative for crunch. Just know that it will alter the flavor a bit.
Cilantro: Love it or hate it, cilantro brings fresh flavor. If you’re not a fan, try parsley or even dill. These alternatives provide a different but tasty twist!
Lime juice: Fresh lime juice is best, but bottled works if that’s all you have. A splash of lemon juice also works nicely in a pinch.
How Do I Cook the Pasta Perfectly for This Salad?
Cooking pasta to the right doneness is key for salads. You want it slightly firm, or “al dente,” so it holds up with the dressings and other ingredients.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. This helps flavor the pasta.
- Add the pasta and follow the package directions, checking a couple of minutes early.
- When done, drain and immediately rinse under cold water. This stops cooking and cools it down quickly.
Make sure the pasta is cool before mixing, so it doesn’t warm the other ingredients!
How to Make Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 ounces farfalle pasta (or pasta of choice)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So, you’ll be ready to enjoy it in about 45 minutes! Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish at your next gathering.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the farfalle pasta (or your choice of pasta) and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water for a few moments to cool it down. Set it aside.
2. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the halved cherry tomatoes, corn, diced avocado, finely chopped red onion, and chopped cilantro. It’s colorful and full of fresh flavors!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, mix the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper together. Whisk them until they are well combined. This will add a zesty kick to your pasta salad!
4. Toss Everything Together:
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mixture and gently toss everything together. Make sure all the ingredients are well coated in the dressing for the best flavor.
5. Chill and Serve:
Before serving, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes. This helps all the delicious flavors meld together. Serve it chilled or at room temperature, and feel free to garnish it with extra cilantro if you like!
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions, and don’t forget to rinse it under cold water to cool it down!
How Can I Substitute Ingredients in This Salad?
If you don’t have cilantro, you can use parsley or basil for a different flavor profile. Also, if you’re allergic to avocado, you could replace it with diced cucumbers for crunch or some crumbled feta for creaminess!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The pasta salad may dry out a bit, so feel free to drizzle a little olive oil or lime juice into the salad before serving to refresh it.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead! You can prepare it a few hours, or even a day in advance. Just be sure to add the avocado closer to serving time to prevent it from browning.
