This bright and zesty cilantro lime pasta salad is perfect for warm days! It combines cooked pasta with fresh veggies, a touch of lime juice, and tasty cilantro.
I’m pretty sure this salad is the best way to enjoy pasta in the summer! I love serving it at picnics or barbecues, and it always gets gobbled up fast! 🌞🍴
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bowtie Pasta: I love using farfalle for its fun shape. If you don’t have it, any pasta shape will work, like penne or rotini.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a sweet burst of flavor. You can swap them for diced bell peppers for a twist if you prefer.
Fresh Corn: You can use canned or frozen corn if fresh isn’t available. Just rinse canned corn or thaw frozen corn before adding.
Avocado: Avocados bring creaminess to the salad. If you’re not a fan, try using diced cucumbers for crunch instead.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives a bright taste. If you’re not keen, parsley is a great alternative that still adds freshness.
How Do You Make Sure the Avocado Stays Fresh in Your Pasta Salad?
Avocados can brown quickly once cut, so here’s how to keep them looking fresh:
- Cut the avocado just before mixing it into the salad.
- Adding lime juice helps slow down browning, so don’t skip the dressing!
- If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container and eat it within a day for the best results.
Easy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Salad:
- 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels (about 1 ear of corn)
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp honey or sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to chill, totaling about 45 minutes. It’s quick and allows the flavors to come together beautifully while it chills in the fridge!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by cooking the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. When it’s done, drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process. Set it aside.
2. Prepare the Corn:
If you’re using fresh corn, remove the kernels from the cob. If you prefer, you can lightly blanch the kernels for a couple of minutes, but using them raw adds a sweet crunch to the salad!
3. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, corn kernels, diced avocado, chopped red onion, and chopped cilantro. This is where all the vibrant colors come together!
4. Make the Dressing:
In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lime juice, finely chopped cilantro, minced garlic, honey (if using), salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
5. Mix it All Together:
Pour the cilantro lime dressing over the pasta mixture. Gently toss everything together to make sure everything is evenly coated without mashing the avocado. That creamy avocado is a star ingredient!
6. Chill the Salad:
Cover and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and the salad to chill, making it even more refreshing.
7. Final Touches:
Before serving, give the salad a final toss. Adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lime juice to taste. Serve it chilled, garnished with extra cilantro if desired.
Enjoy this fresh, zesty, and creamy cilantro lime pasta salad! It’s perfect for summer meals or as a vibrant side dish at any gathering!
FAQ for Easy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While I recommend bowtie pasta for its fun shape, you can use any pasta you like—such as rotini, penne, or fusilli. Just be sure to cook it al dente and rinse with cold water after draining.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply substitute the mayonnaise with a plant-based mayo or use a combination of silken tofu blended with lime juice and spices as a dressing alternative. Make sure the honey is replaced with maple syrup or agave for sweetness!
Can I Prepare This Pasta Salad in Advance?
Yes! This pasta salad actually tastes better when chilled and allowed to sit for a bit. You can make it up to a day in advance; just be sure to leave the avocado until right before serving to keep it fresh and green.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best eaten within 2-3 days, as the avocado may brown over time. You can add a squeeze of lime juice before storing to help maintain the freshness!
