This refreshing cilantro lime pasta salad is perfect for a sunny day! With tender pasta, bright cilantro, and zesty lime, it brings a burst of flavor to your plate.
I love how quick it is to whip up—just toss everything together in a bowl. Pair it with grilled chicken, and you’ve got a delightful meal that everyone will enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using farfalle for its fun shape and texture, but any pasta you have on hand will work! Try penne, fusilli, or rotini. For gluten-free options, use chickpea or rice pasta.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives a bright flavor, but if you’re not a fan, try fresh parsley or basil instead. Just keep in mind that this will change the dish a bit.
Avocado: Ripe avocado adds creaminess, but if you want a lower-fat option, skip it or use a little extra dressing to keep it moist. You can also add diced cucumber for crunch!
Corn: Fresh corn is sweet and juicy, but canned or frozen corn works too. Just make sure to rinse canned corn well to reduce sodium.
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: If you want a lighter dressing, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream. You can also use vegan mayo for a plant-based option.
How Do I Get the Perfect Lime Dressing?
Getting the dressing just right makes a big difference! Start with fresh limes for the best flavor. Here’s how to whip it up:
- In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and sour cream until smooth.
- Add the zest first for a punch of citrus flavor, then the lime juice. This brightens up the salad!
- Incorporate minced garlic and cumin for depth of flavor. Adjust with salt and pepper to taste.
- When you combine it with the salad, it should coat the pasta nicely without being too heavy.
Feel free to taste as you go—adding more lime juice or seasoning based on your preference really helps!
Easy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Vegetables:
- 8 oz farfalle (bowtie) pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels (or canned/drained)
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- Juice and zest of 2 limes
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy pasta salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time and is ready to serve right after you make it. Perfect for quick meals or picnics!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the farfalle pasta and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente (tender but still firm). After draining the pasta, rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set the pasta aside.
2. Make the Dressing:
While the pasta is cooking, grab a small bowl. In it, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth. This will be your flavorful cilantro lime dressing!
3. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, corn, diced avocado, red onion, and chopped cilantro. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together.
4. Combine with Dressing:
Now, pour the cilantro lime dressing over the pasta mixture. Carefully toss everything together until all the ingredients are nicely coated in the dressing.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste the salad and see if it needs a little more salt, pepper, or lime juice. Adjust according to your preference.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Transfer the salad to a serving dish and garnish with extra chopped cilantro on top. You can serve it right away or chill it in the refrigerator for a bit to enhance the flavors. Enjoy!
This vibrant and creamy cilantro lime pasta salad is perfect for gatherings or just a tasty side dish at dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While farfalle is a great choice for its fun shape, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or gluten-free options like chickpea or rice pasta. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed!
How Do I Store Leftover Pasta Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving, and you may want to add a little extra lime juice or dressing to refresh the flavors!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this pasta salad a day in advance! Just keep it refrigerated. However, if you add the avocado ahead of time, it may brown, so it’s best to add it just before serving for optimal freshness.
What Can I Substitute for Mayo and Sour Cream?
If you’re looking for lighter alternatives, you can substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream and reduce or eliminate the mayo. You can also use a plant-based mayonnaise for a vegan version of this dish!
