This bright and zesty cilantro lime pasta salad is a perfect side dish! It combines pasta, fresh cilantro, lime juice, and crunchy vegetables for a tasty twist.
If you’re like me, you’ll love how simple it is to whip up. Just toss everything together and you’ve got a vibrant salad that’s perfect for summer BBQs or picnics!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Bow-tie pasta is great for this salad due to its shape and texture. However, you can swap it out for any pasta you have on hand, like penne or rotini. Just keep an eye on the cooking time!
Cherry Tomatoes: These are sweet and juicy, but you can use any small tomato varieties such as grape tomatoes or even diced larger tomatoes if that’s what you have. Just adjust the quantity to your taste!
Corn: Fresh corn is delicious, but if it’s not in season, frozen corn works just as well. Just make sure to thaw it before adding to the salad. You could also use canned corn, just drain and rinse first!
Avocado: For creaminess, fresh avocado is perfect. If you don’t have any or want a low-calorie option, try diced cucumbers for a crunchy substitute!
Cilantro: This herb gives a fresh flavor. If you’re not a fan, parsley can be a milder alternative, or you could even use a touch of basil for a different twist.
How Do I Make the Dressing Smooth and Flavorful?
The dressing is crucial for this pasta salad and making it perfect is easy! Start by mixing the sour cream or Greek yogurt with lime juice and olive oil. This combination creates a smooth base.
- Whisk until it’s well blended, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Add minced garlic — it boosts flavor but be careful not to overpower the dish.
- Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust as needed, tasting along the way, to find your perfect balance!
Chilling the dressing briefly can also help deepen the flavors before you mix it with the salad.
Easy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Salad:
- 8 oz bow-tie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or cooked from frozen)
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Cilantro Lime Dressing:
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Time Needed:
This pasta salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes before you can enjoy this refreshing dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the bow-tie pasta according to the package instructions until it’s just al dente. This means it should be tender but still have a slight firmness. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set it aside to let it drain completely.
2. Combine 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 the mixture a gentle stir to combine everything without mashing the avocado. It’s colorful and smells amazing!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate bowl, prepare the cilantro lime dressing. Whisk together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), chopped cilantro, fresh lime juice, olive oil, and minced garlic until it’s smooth and well blended. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. This dressing is zesty and adds a delicious kick!
4. Combine Dressing and Salad:
Pour the cilantro lime dressing over the pasta mixture. Gently toss everything together to coat all the ingredients evenly in the dressing. This ties all the flavors together, and it looks fantastic!
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps the flavors meld together beautifully, making every bite even more delicious.
6. Final Touches:
Before serving, give the salad a quick toss to redistribute the ingredients and dressing. Taste it and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Enjoy this fresh, colorful, and zesty cilantro lime pasta salad at your next meal or gathering!
FAQ for Easy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! You can easily substitute the bow-tie pasta with gluten-free pasta varieties. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions specific to the gluten-free pasta you choose, as cooking times may vary.
What Can I Substitute for Avocado?
If you’re not a fan of avocado or don’t have any on hand, diced cucumbers or bell peppers can be a great alternative. They offer a nice crunch and freshness to the salad without changing the overall taste too much.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover cilantro lime pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, the avocado may brown slightly over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes, you can make this pasta salad vegan by substituting the sour cream with a plant-based yogurt or cashew cream. Just ensure that the other ingredients like the pasta and any add-ins are also vegan-friendly!
