This Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad is a burst of freshness! Made with pasta, zesty lime, and fresh cilantro, it’s the perfect side dish for any meal.
It’s colorful, tasty, and a great way to get your greens! I love serving it chilled, especially on warm days. Trust me, you’ll want seconds! 🌿🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using farfalle for its fun shape, but any pasta like rotini or penne will work. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as different shapes may require adjustments.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives a zesty flavor. If you’re not a fan, you can use parsley instead, but it will change the taste a bit.
Avocado: It adds creaminess to the dish. If you don’t have one, you can skip it or use diced cucumber for a crunchy texture.
Greek Yogurt: This adds a tangy taste and creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use plain yogurt or even low-fat sour cream.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice is best for brightness. Bottled juice works in a pinch, but fresh really makes the flavors pop!
How Do I Get the Perfectly Creamy Dressing?
The dressing is the heart of this pasta salad, and it’s all about balance. Start by whisking the mayonnaise and Greek yogurt together; this creates a smooth base. Then, add lime juice and zest for brightness.
- Mix the mayonnaise and yogurt until smooth.
- Add lime juice and zest, followed by olive oil, salt, and pepper. Taste as you go! Adjust to your liking.
- For a bit more kick, add a pinch of garlic powder or a splash of hot sauce.
Make sure to combine the dressing with the salad gently, so you keep the avocado intact.
How to Make Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz farfalle pasta (or pasta of your choice)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1 tsp lime zest
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious cilantro lime pasta salad takes about 10 minutes for prep work and another 15 minutes to cook the pasta. You’ll want to chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors mix together nicely. So, plan for about 55 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
First, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (that means firm to the bite!). Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set the cooled pasta aside in a large bowl.
2. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In that large mixing bowl with your cooled pasta, add the halved cherry tomatoes, corn, diced avocado, finely chopped red onion, and freshly chopped cilantro. Gently stir everything together so it’s well mixed but be careful not to mash the avocado!
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Keep whisking until everything is smooth and creamy.
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over your pasta salad mixture. Using a spatula, gently toss everything together, making sure all the ingredients are coated in that yummy dressing.
5. Chill and Serve:
Give your salad a taste! If you think it needs a little more salt, pepper, or lime juice, feel free to adjust it to your liking. Once you’re happy with the flavor, cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will help the flavors blend beautifully.
6. Enjoy Your Salad!
After chilling, take your cilantro lime pasta salad out of the fridge and give it a little stir. Serve it cold, and enjoy this refreshing dish with friends and family!
Can I Use Another Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you like, such as penne, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions and rinse it under cold water to cool it down, just as you would with farfalle.
How Can I Substitute the Avocado?
If you’re not a fan of avocado or don’t have any on hand, try substituting it with diced cucumber or bell pepper for a crunchy texture. You can also toss in some cooked chickpeas for extra protein and a different texture!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this salad vegan! Substitute the mayonnaise and Greek yogurt with a plant-based mayonnaise and dairy-free yogurt. Additionally, ensure that your pasta is egg-free, and you’re all set!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If it seems a bit dry when you’re ready to eat it again, just stir in a splash of lime juice or a bit more olive oil to refresh it!
