This Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad is bright and refreshing, perfect for any meal! With zesty lime, fresh cilantro, and colorful veggies, it’s packed with flavor and crunch.
Every bite feels like a mini fiesta! 🎉 I love serving it chilled on hot days—it’s like a cool breeze in a bowl. You won’t want to stop munching on this deliciousness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Farfalle is a fun choice for this salad because of its bowtie shape. If you’re in a pinch, any pasta like penne or fusilli works great. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta is also a good alternative to suit dietary needs.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a sweet bite to the dish. If they’re out of season, diced regular tomatoes will work. Sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers can offer different flavors too!
Avocado: I love the creaminess avocado brings. If you’re looking for a lighter option or have an allergy, try diced cucumbers or even a bit of crumbled feta cheese for a different creamy texture.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is a must for that vibrant flavor. If you’re not a fan, mix in fresh parsley or basil instead. Dried herbs can also work in a pinch, although fresh tastes best.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice really brightens up the salad. If you don’t have limes, lemon juice can provide a similar zing. Alternatively, a splash of apple cider vinegar can add acidity!
How Do I Cook Pasta Perfectly for a Cold Salad?
Cooking pasta just right is vital for the texture of your salad. Here’s how to do it well:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. This adds flavor to the pasta!
- Add the farfalle and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta and immediately rinse it with cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools it down for your salad.
- Let it drain well to prevent extra water from making your salad soggy.
Remember, undercooking slightly is better than overcooking here! This will keep the pasta holding up nicely when mixed with the other ingredients.
How to Make Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz farfalle pasta (or pasta of choice)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup corn (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing pasta salad takes about 15 minutes for preparation and cooking, and you’ll want to chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. So, in total, plan for about 45 minutes before you can dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the farfalle pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to cook until it’s al dente, which means it’s still slightly firm when bitten. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down quickly. This will help keep your pasta salad fresh and vibrant.
2. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta along with the halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, corn, 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, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and the dressing looks smooth.
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently. You want everything to be evenly coated without smashing the avocado. It should look colorful and appetizing!
5. Chill and Final Touch:
Take a moment to taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Afterward, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, give the salad one last gentle toss. You can serve it cold or at room temperature, garnished with extra cilantro if you like. Enjoy your fresh and tasty cilantro lime pasta salad!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While farfalle works great for this salad, you can use any pasta you prefer, like fusilli, penne, or elbow macaroni. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions for the best texture!
How Can I Substitute Fresh Cilantro?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with fresh parsley for a milder flavor, or use fresh basil for a different twist. Just be sure to chop it finely before adding it to the salad!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the avocado may brown slightly, but adding a little extra lime juice can help prevent this!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead! Just prepare it up to a day in advance, but hold off on adding the avocado until just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.
