This Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad is a refreshing mix of pasta, bright cilantro, zesty lime, and crisp veggies. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a summer picnic!
Honestly, I can’t resist that zesty kick from the lime! It’s like a sunny day on a plate. Plus, it only takes a few minutes to whip up—perfect for busy evenings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bowtie Pasta: Farfalle gives a fun shape and texture to the salad. You can swap it for any pasta you have on hand like rotini or penne, and even gluten-free pasta works well!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings bright flavor. If you’re not a fan, try parsley or basil instead. They both add a lovely fresh note, just different from cilantro.
Corn: Fresh corn adds sweetness, but you can use frozen or canned corn if fresh isn’t available. Just drain canned corn well before adding.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: I love using Greek yogurt for its creaminess and added protein. If you’re dairy-free, try a plant-based yogurt or a cashew cream for similar texture.
How Do I Ensure the Pasta Doesn’t Stick Together?
Preventing sticky pasta is all about how you cook and cool it. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use plenty of water for boiling; it helps the pasta cook evenly.
- Stir the pasta as it cooks, especially in the beginning, to prevent sticking.
- After draining, rinse the pasta under cold water. This cools it down quickly and stops further cooking, keeping it firm.
Following these tips will keep your pasta salad fresh and enjoyable! Enjoy this easy and tasty dish!
Easy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels (cut from about 1 ear of corn)
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Juice and zest of 2 limes
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Time Needed
This delightful pasta salad will take you about 15 minutes of prep time and another 10 minutes to cook the pasta. So, in just 25 minutes, you’ll have a fresh, tasty dish ready to go!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the bowtie pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. When done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. This also helps stop it from cooking further. Set the cooled pasta aside.
2. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice and zest, olive oil, minced garlic, and chopped cilantro. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and well blended. Taste it and add salt and black pepper according to your preference. It should have a zesty yet creamy flavor.
3. Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, mix the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, fresh corn, diced avocado, and finely chopped red onion. These ingredients add vibrant colors and crisp textures to your salad!
4. Dress the Salad
Pour the cilantro lime dressing over the mixed ingredients in the bowl. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and veggies are well coated in the dressing. Be careful not to mash the avocado; you want those creamy chunks intact!
5. Serve and Garnish
Before serving, garnish the salad with additional chopped cilantro for that fresh touch. You can enjoy this salad chilled or at room temperature—either way, it’s delicious!
This vibrant and creamy cilantro lime pasta salad perfectly balances fresh veggies and tangy dressing, making it a wonderfully easy dish to prepare!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber. If you prefer gluten-free, there are many great gluten-free pasta options available that will work just as well.
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with plant-based alternatives like vegan mayo and dairy-free yogurt. Adjust the lime juice and seasoning to taste for a delicious vegan version.
How Long Does This Pasta Salad Last in the Fridge?
This pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. As it sits, the flavors will meld together beautifully!
What Can I Add for Extra Protein?
If you’d like to boost the protein content, consider adding cooked chicken, chickpeas, or black beans. All of these options pair wonderfully with the existing flavors of the salad!
