This vibrant cilantro lime pasta salad is perfect for any gathering! It’s made with fresh pasta, zesty lime, and plenty of cilantro, giving it a bright and refreshing flavor.
Honestly, who can resist a salad that tastes like summer? I love serving it at barbecues or picnics. Plus, it’s super quick to whip up—just mix and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bowtie Pasta: This recipe calls for bowtie pasta, but feel free to swap it out for any pasta shape you like. Penne or rotini work well and hold onto the dressing nicely.
Corn: Fresh corn adds sweetness and texture, but thawed frozen corn or canned corn (drained) can be used as an easy alternative.
Avocado: Avocados provide creaminess and healthy fats. If you need a substitute, try diced cucumber or even some white beans for a different texture.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives this salad its vibrant flavor. If you’re not a fan, consider using parsley or a sprinkle of green onions instead.
Sour Cream/Greek Yogurt: I love using Greek yogurt for its tangy flavor and added protein. If you’re dairy-free, consider using cashew cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
How Do I Achieve the Best Flavor Balance in the Dressing?
The dressing is crucial for this pasta salad. Here’s how to make it shine:
- Mix your sour cream or Greek yogurt with mayonnaise for a creamy base. This combination adds depth and richness.
- Fresh lime juice and zest are essential for brightness. Always taste as you go!
- Don’t forget the garlic! It adds a nice kick; just be sure to mince it finely.
- Season with salt and pepper, adjusting to your taste. If you like more zesty notes, add more lime juice.
After dressing the salad, let it chill in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to combine and become even more delicious. Trust me; it’s worth the wait!
Easy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels (from about 1 ear of corn)
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful meal will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus a chilling time of at least 30 minutes. So in total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes before you can dig in! The wait is worth it for those wonderful flavors to come together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta, then rinse it with cold water to cool it down. This will help stop the cooking process. Set it aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Prepare the Corn:
If you’re using fresh corn, bring a pot of water to a boil. Drop in the corn for about 3-4 minutes until tender. After soaking, let it cool a bit and carefully slice the kernels off the cob.
3. Mix the Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the halved cherry tomatoes, corn kernels, diced avocado, finely chopped red onion, and freshly chopped cilantro. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the sour cream or Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, fresh lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, olive oil, and a bit of salt and pepper until smooth. This will be the zesty dressing that ties the salad together.
5. Combine and Toss:
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently until everything is well coated in that delicious dressing. Take your time to ensure every bite is covered!
6. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, give it a taste! You might want to add a touch more salt, pepper, or lime juice depending on your preference. A little extra lime can really brighten up the flavors!
7. Chill Out:
Cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial because it allows all those flavors to meld beautifully.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, sprinkle some extra fresh cilantro on top for a pop of color and flavor. Dig in and enjoy this refreshing pasta salad that’s perfect for any occasion!
Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for bowtie (farfalle) pasta, you can easily substitute it with other shapes like penne, rotini, or even whole wheat pasta. Just be sure to cook it according to package instructions!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cilantro lime pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the avocado from browning, try to eat it within the first day or add the avocado fresh just before serving.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad can be made ahead of time and is great for meal prepping. Just prepare everything, toss it in the dressing, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. It’s even tastier the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together!
What If I Don’t Like Cilantro?
No problem! If cilantro isn’t your thing, you can substitute it with fresh parsley, chives, or simply omit it altogether. Adjust the recipe according to your taste preferences!
