This bright and zesty pasta salad is packed with fresh cilantro and a refreshing lime dressing. It’s not only tasty but also super easy to whip up for gatherings or a quick lunch!
Honestly, the best part is how colorful it looks on the table. Plus, it’s a great way to use up those herbs before they wilt! I love snacking on it right out of the bowl. 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Bow tie pasta (farfalle) works great here for its fun shape, but you can swap it for any pasta you prefer like rotini or penne if that’s what you have on hand.
Corn: Fresh corn adds sweetness and crunch. If fresh isn’t available, frozen corn can be used. Just thaw it first, and it will work perfectly!
Avocado: Adds creaminess and healthy fats. If you’re avoiding avocados, a diced cucumber makes a nice crunchy replacement.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is key for that zesty flavor, but if you’re not a fan, parsley offers a milder taste. Just chop it finely.
Mayonnaise: This gives the dressing its creamy texture. Greek yogurt is a healthier swap if you’re looking for something lighter, and it adds a nice tang.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Salad is Perfectly Coated?
Coating the ingredients evenly is vital for a delicious pasta salad. Follow these steps for the best results:
- After cooking, rinse the pasta with cold water. This helps to stop cooking and keeps the pasta from clumping.
- Mix your dressing separately before adding it to the pasta salad. This ensures a smoother coating.
- Toss gently when combining the salad and dressing. Use a folding motion to avoid mashing the avocado.
- Let your salad chill for at least 30 minutes. This allows all the flavors to come together nicely.
With these tips, your pasta salad should turn out beautifully mixed and flavorful every time!
Easy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Vegetables:
- 8 oz bow tie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels (about 2 ears of corn)
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 lime, juiced and zested
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes to have this dish ready to serve and enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the bow tie pasta according to the package instructions. Aim for al dente—this means it should be cooked but still firm. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process and cool it down. Set it aside.
2. Prep the Veggies:
While the pasta is cooking, take this time to prepare your fresh veggies. Halve the cherry tomatoes, cut the corn kernels off the cob, dice the avocado, and finely chop the red onion and cilantro. This adds lots of vibrant color and flavor to the salad!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, and olive oil. Season the mixture with a sprinkle of salt and pepper, and mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine Ingredients:
In a larger mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, corn, diced avocado, red onion, and half of the chopped cilantro. This colorful combo creates a beautiful base for your salad.
5. Mix with the Dressing:
Pour your creamy cilantro lime dressing over the pasta salad. Gently toss everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated. Be careful not to mash the avocado!
6. Final Touches:
Sprinkle the remaining chopped cilantro over the top of the salad for a fresh garnish. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if you like.
7. Chill Out:
To let the flavors combine beautifully, cover the pasta salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step really enhances the taste!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, give it a gentle stir and serve your vibrant pasta salad cold or at room temperature. It’s perfect as a refreshing side dish or a light meal on its own!
This dish not only tastes fantastic but also looks stunning with all its colors, making it a great addition to any table or picnic basket!
FAQ about Easy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute the bow tie pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions for the specific pasta type you choose, as cooking times may vary.
How Do I Keep My Avocado from Browning?
To minimize browning, try adding the diced avocado just before serving. If you want to prep ahead, squeeze some lime juice over the diced avocado – the acidity will help prevent browning!
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this salad vegan! Swap the mayonnaise for a vegan alternative or use a blend of tahini and unsweetened plant-based yogurt for a creamy texture. Ensure that the other ingredients are also vegan-friendly.
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
The cilantro lime pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh, so I recommend eating it within that timeframe for optimal flavor and texture!
