This fresh pasta salad is packed with bright flavors from cilantro and lime. It’s light, tasty, and perfect for a sunny day or a picnic!
I love how easy it is to whip up! Just cook the pasta, toss in some veggies, and drizzle with zesty dressing. It’s a real crowd-pleaser that even my picky friends enjoy! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Bowtie pasta is fun and holds dressing well. If you don’t have it, choose any small pasta like rotini or penne. Gluten-free pasta can also work great!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is key for that vibrant flavor! If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley or basil can be used, though the taste will differ slightly.
Avocado: This adds creaminess. You can substitute it with diced cucumbers for a low-calorie option or even some sliced olives for extra flavor.
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: These create a creamy dressing. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt with a splash of olive oil and a bit more lime juice for a zesty twist.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Salad Is Well-Mixed and Flavorful?
Mixing the salad well is vital for the best taste. Follow these tips:
- After rinsing the pasta in cold water, make sure to drain it thoroughly so the dressing sticks properly.
- When combining ingredients in the bowl, gently toss them rather than stirring too roughly to avoid mashing the avocado.
- Letting the salad chill for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors meld together, making every bite delicious!
Easy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium avocado, diced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 lime, zested and juiced
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. If you let it chill in the fridge for 30 minutes, it gives the flavors a chance to mix together beautifully. So, roughly 45 minutes total, and you’ll have a tasty salad ready to go!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the bowtie pasta according to the package directions. Make sure it’s al dente, so it stays firm when mixed with other ingredients. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set it aside for later!
2. Combine the Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta along with the halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, corn kernels, finely chopped red onion, and chopped cilantro. This mix is going to bring lots of color and flavor to your salad!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt, whichever you prefer), minced garlic, lime zest, lime juice, and a dash of salt and pepper. Mix it until smooth—it should be creamy and zesty!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the cilantro lime dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Gently toss everything together so that all the ingredients are coated evenly. Be careful not to mash the avocado!
5. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if needed with a bit more salt, pepper, or lime juice to enhance the flavors.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Add a sprinkle of extra chopped cilantro on top for a fresh touch. You can serve it immediately or let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to allow those delicious flavors to meld together.
Enjoy your fresh, zesty cilantro lime pasta salad! Perfect as a side dish or a light meal. 🌿🍽️
FAQ for Easy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
Can I Use Different Pasta Types?
Absolutely! While bowtie (farfalle) pasta works wonderfully, you can substitute with any small pasta like rotini, penne, or even a gluten-free pasta to suit your dietary preferences.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this pasta salad vegan, simply replace the mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan alternatives. You can use a dairy-free yogurt or make your own creamy dressing using blended cashews for a nice texture!
How Do I Keep Leftovers Fresh?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the avocado from browning, you can squeeze a little extra lime juice over the exposed pieces before sealing the container.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to customize this salad by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or even black beans for an extra nutritional boost. Just make sure to adjust the dressing proportions if you add many extra ingredients!
