This Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad is a fresh and zesty dish that brings a burst of flavor to any table. Packed with colorful veggies, it’s light yet satisfying!
I love how the lime and cilantro give this salad a refreshing kick. It’s perfect for summer picnics or just when you want something bright and tasty! 🌿🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Farfalle (bow-tie pasta) adds a fun shape to this salad but you can easily swap it for any pasta you like, such as penne, rotini, or even whole wheat for a healthier option.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and color! If you can’t find them, diced bell peppers or halved grape tomatoes work great as substitutes.
Corn: Fresh corn has a delightful crunch but canned corn is a convenient backup. Just rinse it well to reduce sodium. You can also use frozen corn; just thaw it before adding.
Avocado: Avocado adds creaminess. If you’re short on time, try using diced cucumber for a crisp texture instead. Just remember, it won’t have the same creaminess.
Cilantro: I love the fresh taste cilantro gives, but if you’re not a fan, try fresh parsley for a milder flavor.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brings brightness. In a pinch, lemon juice can work too, though it will taste slightly different. Using bottled juice is fine but fresh is preferable.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta might seem simple, but getting it just right is key! Here’s how:
- Start with plenty of water – about 4-6 quarts for 12 oz of pasta, and make sure to salt it well (about 1 tablespoon). It should taste like the sea!
- Follow the package instructions for cooking time but check a minute or two before it’s done. You want it “al dente,” which means it should be firm to the bite.
- Once cooked, don’t forget to drain and rinse under cold water. This stops the cooking process and helps keep the pasta from becoming mushy.
How to Make Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Vegetables:
- 12 oz farfalle pasta (or any pasta of choice)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned)
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Dressing:
- 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing pasta salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time plus 30 minutes of chilling time in the fridge. It’s quick to make and a great dish for gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of water. Add the farfalle pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set it aside to let it drain completely.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, corn, diced avocado, finely chopped red onion, and chopped cilantro. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. This will create a flavorful dressing for our salad.
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad. Toss everything gently to ensure that all the ingredients are well coated with the delicious dressing. Taste it and feel free to adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed.
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl and place the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This chilling time helps all the flavors blend together beautifully. Serve it cold or at room temperature and enjoy your tasty Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute farfalle with any pasta you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or even a gluten-free option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose.
How Can I Keep Avocado from Browning in the Salad?
To prevent the avocado from browning, you can toss it with a little lime juice before adding it to the salad. Alternatively, serve the salad shortly after preparing it, or consider adding the avocado just before serving.
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Vegan?
Yes, this recipe is already vegan! Just ensure that your pasta does not contain any egg. Other than that, all the ingredients used are plant-based, making it a great dish for everyone!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the avocado may brown slightly over time, but the flavor will still be delicious! Stir gently before serving again.
