This refreshing cilantro lime pasta salad is perfect for warm days! It’s packed with colorful veggies, zesty lime, and fresh cilantro, making every bite a burst of flavor.
Perfect for a picnic or a light meal, this salad is super easy to whip up. I love having it cold from the fridge; it feels like a little vacation in a bowl! 🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Farfalle is a fun choice for this salad, but you can swap it with other shapes like rotini, penne, or even quinoa for gluten-free options. Just make sure to cook it al dente for the best texture!
Cherry Tomatoes: If you can’t find cherry tomatoes, you could use grape tomatoes or regular tomatoes cut into bite-sized pieces. I like using a mix of colors for a more vibrant dish.
Corn: Fresh corn off the cob tastes amazing in this salad, but canned or frozen corn works just fine. If you’re looking for a twist, try black beans or diced bell peppers.
Avocado: For a creamy addition, use ripe avocados. You can also substitute it with diced cucumber if you want to keep the salad lighter or if you’re not an avocado fan.
Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt gives a nice tanginess, but sour cream is a great alternative. You can also opt for non-dairy yogurt for a vegan option.
How Can I Ensure My Pasta Salad Stays Fresh?
Cooling and storing your pasta salad properly is key to a fresh taste. After cooking your pasta, rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This helps keep it firm and prevents it from becoming mushy.
- Let the pasta cool completely before mixing it with the dressing.
- Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving; this allows the flavors to combine well.
- For best results, avoid adding the avocado until just before serving to prevent browning.
Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz farfalle or bowtie pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen, thawed)
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- Juice of 2 limes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing pasta salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In just under an hour, you’ll have a delicious and zesty salad ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by boiling a large pot of water. Once it’s boiling, add the farfalle pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. When done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking. Let it cool while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, corn, diced avocado, finely chopped red onion, and chopped cilantro. Stir them together gently to mix without smashing the avocado.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lime juice, olive oil, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
4. Combine Everything:
Now, add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the dressing over the top and toss everything gently until all the ingredients are well-coated.
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl and chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps all the flavors come together beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, you can add a sprinkle of extra cilantro on top if you’d like. Enjoy your zesty Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the farfalle with any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini, penne, or even whole wheat pasta. Just remember to adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply swap the Greek yogurt or sour cream for a dairy-free alternative, like coconut yogurt or cashew cream. Also, ensure the lime juice and other ingredients are free from animal products.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the avocado may brown, so it’s best to add it fresh if you plan on saving some for later!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Salad?
Definitely! This salad is very versatile. Consider adding bell peppers, cucumber, or even black beans for an extra protein punch. Just chop them up and toss them in with the other veggies!
