This cilantro lime pasta salad is fresh, zesty, and super easy to whip up! With pasta, bright lime juice, and fresh cilantro, it’s a delicious twist on a classic dish!
Perfect for summer picnics or as a side for dinner, I love how this salad brings all the flavors together. Plus, it’s a hit at every BBQ! Who can resist a colorful bowl of yum? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Farfalle pasta adds a nice shape and texture to this salad. But feel free to use any pasta you have on hand, like penne or fusilli. Just remember to cook it until al dente for the best bite.
Corn: Fresh corn is great, but canned or frozen corn works perfectly too! If you’re looking for a twist, try black beans for some extra protein and flavor.
Avocado: This adds creaminess to the salad. If avocados aren’t ripe, try using diced cucumber instead for crunch, or omit if you prefer. Add a bit more yogurt for creaminess if you leave it out.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives the salad its vibrant flavor. If you’re not a fan, try chopped parsley or basil as a substitute. It will change the flavor a bit, but still be delicious!
Dressing: The mix of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt is creamy and tangy. You can replace Greek yogurt with sour cream or use all mayo if you want a richer flavor. For a lighter option, try using plain yogurt.
How Do I Make Pasta Salad Extra Flavorful?
To really enhance the flavors of your pasta salad, focus on your dressing and seasoning. Be sure to taste as you go for the best results.
- Start with fresh lime juice; the tartness brightens everything up. Fresh herbs, like cilantro, really boost the flavor.
- Mix your dressing ingredients well; using a whisk helps. To add depth, you can also throw in a pinch of cumin or chili powder for a little kick!
- Don’t rush it! Letting your salad chill for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
How to Make Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Vegetables:
- 8 oz farfalle pasta (or your choice of pasta)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Dressing:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. With simple ingredients and quick steps, you’ll have a refreshing dish ready for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down, then set it aside.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the halved cherry tomatoes, corn, diced avocado, finely chopped red onion, and chopped cilantro. This colorful mix will create a delightful salad!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), freshly squeezed lime juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta salad ingredients, and gently toss everything together until all the components are nicely coated with the dressing.
5. Chill and Serve:
Take a moment to taste the salad and adjust the seasoning as needed. For the best flavor, cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors blend beautifully!
6. Enjoy!
When you’re ready to serve, enjoy your pasta salad chilled. If you like, you can garnish it with a little extra cilantro for that fresh touch. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute farfalle with any pasta you like, such as bowtie, penne, or rotini. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose, and remember to rinse it under cold water after cooking to maintain that refreshing salad texture.
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you want a mayo-free option or a lighter dressing, you can use additional Greek yogurt or sour cream. Alternatively, avocado can serve as a creamy base, or you can try a vinaigrette made from olive oil, lime juice, and a bit of mustard for added flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the salad covered to prevent it from drying out. If the pasta absorbs too much dressing, you can add a little more yogurt or lime juice when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Definitely! This pasta salad is perfect for meal prep. Prepare everything up to the dressing step, then store it in the fridge. Just add the dressing right before serving to keep the ingredients fresh and flavorful!
