This colorful cilantro lime pasta salad combines tender pasta with fresh veggies and zesty lime. It’s the perfect dish for a sunny day or a quick weeknight dinner!
You can whip it up in no time, and it’s a great way to use up those veggies in your fridge. Plus, who doesn’t love a bit of limey freshness in their meal? 🍋
I enjoy serving this salad chilled, allowing the flavors to shine. It makes the perfect side for grilled meats or a tasty lunch all on its own!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Bowtie pasta (farfalle) adds a fun shape to the salad. You can swap it for rotini or penne if you prefer different textures. Any small pasta will work great!
Corn: Fresh corn is sweet and crunchy, but you can use canned or frozen corn in a pinch. Just make sure to drain and rinse canned corn, and thaw frozen corn beforehand.
Avocado: Avocado adds creaminess. If you’re not a fan or need a lower-fat option, you can skip it or substitute with diced cucumber for a fresh crunch.
Dressing: Mayonnaise and sour cream give thickness, but Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you’re looking for something healthier. You can also use a vinaigrette if you prefer a lighter dressing!
How Do You Perfectly Cook Pasta for a Salad?
Cooking pasta is crucial for a great pasta salad. Follow these simple steps:
- Start with a big pot of salted boiling water. It should taste like the sea!
- Cook the pasta until it’s al dente, usually a minute less than the package suggests for salads.
- Drain the pasta, then rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking and cools it down, so it doesn’t get mushy in your salad.
- Make sure to drain well. Excess water can make your salad watery.
By cooking it just right, your pasta will hold up well and provide a great base for all those fresh toppings!
Easy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or cooked frozen)
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time. After mixing everything together, it’s best to chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. So, in total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes until it’s ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Once it’s bubbling, add a generous pinch of salt and the bowtie pasta. Cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Remember, you don’t want it too soft! When it’s ready, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water. This helps cool it off quickly and stops the cooking process. Set it aside.
2. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, corn kernels, diced avocado, finely chopped red onion, and chopped cilantro. Give it a gentle stir to combine all the ingredients nicely.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In another bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), fresh lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until it’s smooth and creamy. This dressing brings all the flavors together!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Gently toss everything to coat the pasta and veggies evenly with the delicious dressing.
5. Adjust Seasoning:
Take a moment to taste your salad. If you think it needs a bit more flavor, feel free to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or even a splash of lime juice. You can tweak it to your liking!
6. Garnish and Chill:
Before serving, garnish with extra chopped cilantro for a fresh touch. It’s best to chill your pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps all the flavors come together beautifully!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, your cilantro lime pasta salad is ready to serve! Enjoy it as a refreshing side at summer barbecues, a light lunch, or a tasty picnic treat.
This dish is sure to be a hit with its fresh and vibrant flavors. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is a fun choice, you can use any small pasta like rotini, penne, or shell pasta. Just make sure to cook it al dente for the best texture in a salad!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors get better as it sits, but be aware that the avocado may brown slightly. You can add a squeeze of lime juice to help minimize browning.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it up to a day in advance, and keep it refrigerated. Just add the diced avocado right before serving for optimal freshness.
What Can I Substitute for Avocado?
If you’re not a fan of avocado or need a substitute, you can try diced cucumber for a refreshing crunch, or even add in some diced bell pepper for added color and flavor!
