This refreshing cilantro lime pasta salad is bright and zesty! With a mix of pasta, fresh cilantro, and tangy lime, it’s a perfect side dish for any meal.
I love how quick and easy it is to whip up! Just toss everything together, and you have a lively salad that’s sure to make your taste buds dance! 💃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bowtie Pasta: Farfalle adds a fun shape to the salad. You can substitute with any pasta you like, such as rotini or penne, for variety.
Cherry Tomatoes: These are sweet and juicy, but you can also use diced regular tomatoes if that’s what you have on hand.
Fresh Corn: If fresh corn is out of season, canned or frozen sweet corn works well too. Just make sure to drain and rinse canned corn first.
Avocado: For creaminess, ripe avocado is perfect! If you’re not a fan or need a substitute, try using diced cucumber instead for a crunchy bite.
Greek Yogurt: This gives the dressing a creamy texture. You can replace it with sour cream or even a dairy-free yogurt if you want a vegan option.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice gives a zesty kick. If limes are not available, lemon juice is a good alternative.
How Do I Make Sure the Pasta Stays Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta can sometimes be tricky! To get it just right, follow these tips:
- Always check the package instructions for cooking time. Start testing the pasta a minute or two before the suggested time.
- Cook it until it’s al dente, meaning it has a slight bite to it. This helps prevent mushiness, especially when mixed with other ingredients.
- After draining, rinse the pasta under cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools it down, perfect for salads!
Easy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels (from about 1 ear of corn)
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream (for dressing base)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 large lime)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and you should chill it for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. So, in total, you’ll need about 45 minutes from start to finish! Easy-peasy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by cooking the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This should take around 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool.
2. Mixing the Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the halved cherry tomatoes, fresh corn kernels, diced avocado, chopped red onion, and half of the chopped cilantro. This vibrant mix will give your salad a lovely crunch and flavor!
3. Making the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, combine the plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream), fresh lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, honey (or agave syrup), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk all these together until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
4. Combining Everything:
Add the cooled pasta into the large bowl with the veggie mix. Pour the freshly made cilantro lime dressing over the top. Gently toss everything together so that the pasta and veggies are well coated with the dressing.
5. Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle the remaining chopped cilantro on top for a fresh look. Cover your salad with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving. This chilling time helps the flavors come together.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Easy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad is ready to serve! Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature as a fantastic side dish for any meal.
This dish is bursting with refreshing flavors from the cilantro and lime, creamy avocado, sweet corn, and crispy tomatoes, making it a colorful and delicious addition to your table!
FAQ for Easy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular bowtie pasta with gluten-free pasta. Just cook it according to the instructions on the package, and follow the remaining steps as directed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even more delicious the next day!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This pasta salad is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it a day in advance; just give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
What Can I Substitute for Avocado?
If you’re not a fan of avocado or want to keep it from browning, you can replace it with diced cucumber or bell peppers for a refreshing crunch.
