This bright and zesty Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad is a refreshing dish! Made with pasta, fresh cilantro, juicy lime, and colorful veggies, it’s both tasty and quick to whip up.
I love serving this salad at barbecues or picnics. It’s a hit, and who can resist those vibrant flavors? Trust me, your friends will ask for seconds! 🌿🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Bow tie pasta (farfalle) adds a fun shape to this salad! You can swap it for any pasta you like—penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta work great too.
Corn: Fresh corn adds crunch and sweetness. If corn isn’t in season, canned or frozen corn will do just fine. Drain and rinse canned corn before using.
Avocado: Avocado gives creaminess. If you want a substitute, consider diced cucumber for a lighter crunch, but keep in mind you’ll lose some creaminess.
Greek Yogurt: This adds a nice tang. You can use sour cream, or for a dairy-free option, try a plant-based yogurt. It will work well with the flavors!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is key for flavor. If you’re not a fan, parsley or basil can add a different yet tasty twist. Just remember they have distinct flavors.
How Do I Ensure My Pasta Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta just right is crucial for a salad. You want it al dente, which means it should have a slight bite to it. Here’s how:
- Start with plenty of salted water; it should taste like the sea. This enhances the pasta’s flavor.
- Check the cooking time on the package, but start tasting a minute or two early. It should be firm but not hard.
- Once done, immediately drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll achieve the best results for your Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad! Enjoy making this refreshing dish!
Easy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz bow tie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels (about 2 ears of corn)
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing pasta salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In just under an hour, you’ll have a delicious, fresh dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This means it should have a slight bite to it—perfect for a salad! Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it completely. Set it aside.
2. Prepare the Corn:
If you’re using fresh corn on the cob, boil or grill the corn until tender. After it’s cool enough to handle, carefully cut the kernels off the cob. If you prefer, canned or frozen corn can be used instead—just drain and rinse if canned.
3. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the halved cherry tomatoes, fresh corn kernels, diced avocado, finely chopped red onion, and half of the chopped cilantro. This combination adds refreshing color and crunch!
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is smooth and creamy. This dressing adds a tangy and zesty kick to your salad!
5. Combine and Toss:
Pour the cilantro lime dressing over the pasta salad mixture. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well coated in the dressing. Be careful not to mash the avocado, as you want it to stay chunky and delicious!
6. Garnish and Chill:
Sprinkle the remaining chopped cilantro over the top as a garnish. Now, cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors to blend beautifully together.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, give it a quick stir, then serve the salad cold or at room temperature. It’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or just a fresh meal at home!
Enjoy this fresh, vibrant, and easy pasta salad packed with cilantro and lime flavor!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! You can substitute the bow tie pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for best results!
What if I Don’t Have Fresh Corn?
No problem! You can use canned corn or frozen corn. If using canned, make sure to drain and rinse it before adding to the salad. If using frozen, simply thaw it beforehand.
How Can I Keep This Salad Fresh for Longer?
To keep the salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days. If you plan to store leftovers, consider adding the avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Yes! You can make the salad up to a day in advance. Just add the avocado right before serving to keep it from browning and maintaining its fresh flavor.
