This fresh cilantro lime pasta salad is a zesty delight! With tender pasta, bright cilantro, and a tangy lime dressing, it’s perfect for summer picnics or easy weeknight dinners.
Honestly, I could eat this salad every day! It’s not just tasty; it’s quick to whip up. Just mix, chill, and enjoy! Don’t forget to sneak in some extra lime juice for that fresh punch! 🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I like using bow-tie pasta for its fun shape, but any pasta you have will work. Fusilli or penne are great options, too! Just keep an eye on cooking times.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a burst of sweetness. If you don’t have them, diced regular tomatoes or even bell peppers can add some crunch and color.
Fresh Corn: Fresh corn is delightful here, but you can also use canned or frozen corn if that’s what you have. Just drain and rinse the canned corn or thaw frozen before using.
Avocado: This gives a creamy texture. For a more economical option, you can substitute with diced cucumber or simply leave it out.
Greek Yogurt: I prefer Greek yogurt for its creaminess, but sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt will also work well if you’re looking for alternatives.
How Do I Make Sure My Dressing Stays Creamy and Flavorful?
A well-mixed dressing makes all the difference! Begin by mixing the Greek yogurt and lime juice first. It helps the yogurt loosen up. Then, add in the olive oil, garlic, and cumin.
- Make sure your garlic is finely minced to avoid any big bites.
- Don’t hesitate to taste as you mix! If you want it zestier, add more lime juice.
- For a creamier dressing, a splash of water or extra olive oil can help if it feels too thick.
Let your dressing rest for a few minutes; it gives flavors time to mingle before adding it to the pasta!
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 (cut from about 2 ears of corn)
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 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. Perfect for a refreshing meal or a side dish at gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of water. Once it’s bubbling, add the bow-tie pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process. Set the pasta aside.
2. Make the Dressing:
While the pasta is cooking, grab a small bowl and whisk together the Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Taste your dressing, and feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking!
3. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, fresh corn kernels, diced avocado, finely chopped red onion, and roughly chopped cilantro. This is where the colors and flavors start coming together!
4. Add the Dressing:
Pour the cilantro lime dressing over the pasta mixture. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well-coated in the dressing. Be careful not to mash the avocado!
5. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place the pasta salad in the refrigerator. Allow it to chill for at least 30 minutes. This resting time helps the flavors meld together beautifully!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a final gentle toss. If you’d like, sprinkle some extra chopped cilantro on top for a fresh touch. Enjoy this refreshing and colorful salad as a light meal or a delightful side dish!
Enjoy your delicious cilantro lime pasta salad! 🌿🍋
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While bow-tie (farfalle) pasta is delightful, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini or penne. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Corn?
No problem! You can use canned corn or frozen corn instead. If using frozen, just thaw it out by running it under warm water or letting it sit for a bit. Drain and rinse canned corn before using.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, but be mindful that the avocado may brown. You can squeeze a little extra lime juice on top to help preserve its color!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! Simply substitute the Greek yogurt or sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt option, or use avocado oil for extra richness. This way, you’ll keep it creamy and delicious without dairy!
