This colorful pasta salad is a twist on the classic! With zesty lime, fresh cilantro, and crunchy veggies, it’s refreshing and fun to eat!
You can serve it as a side dish or enjoy it on its own. I love making a big batch for picnics—it’s always a hit, and it keeps well in the fridge!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend bowtie pasta for its fun shape and texture. However, other small pasta like rotini, penne, or small shells work well too. Just avoid large pasta shapes, as they can overpower the other ingredients.
Corn: Fresh corn is the best for sweetness and crunch. If it’s not in season, frozen corn is a great substitute. Just thaw and drain it before mixing in.
Avocado: Ripe avocado adds creaminess. If you’re not a fan, try using diced cucumber for crunch instead. Just make sure to eat it soon after cutting to avoid browning!
Mayonnaise: I use mayonnaise for creaminess, but Greek yogurt can be a healthier option. It gives a nice tang and is lower in calories.
How Do I Perfectly Cook Pasta for a Salad?
Cooking pasta correctly is key to a good salad. You want to ensure it’s al dente so it holds its shape and doesn’t get mushy.
- Boil a large pot of salted water before adding the pasta, which enhances the flavor.
- Follow package instructions for cooking time but check a minute early. It should be firm to bite.
- Drain the pasta and immediately rinse it under cold water. This cools it down quickly and stops the cooking process.
Easy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels (from about 1 ear of corn)
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Time Estimate
This delicious pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, along with an optional chill time of 30 minutes in the fridge to enhance the flavors. So, you can enjoy a tasty dish in just under an hour!
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling water in a large pot with a pinch of salt. Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This means it should be firm to the bite, not mushy! Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down and stop it from cooking further. Set the cooled pasta aside.
2. Prepare the Veggies
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta. Toss in the cherry tomatoes, fresh corn kernels, diced avocado, finely chopped red onion, and half of the chopped cilantro. It’s a colorful mix full of flavor and nutrition!
3. Make the Dressing
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until you have a smooth dressing. This tangy dressing will tie all the flavors together beautifully.
4. Combine Everything
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and veggies are well-coated with the dressing. Make sure not to mash the avocado—you want those beautiful chunks to stay intact!
5. Garnish & Chill
Sprinkle the remaining cilantro on top for a fresh garnish. Cover the salad and place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This chill time gives the flavors a chance to meld together, making it even tastier!
6. Serve & Enjoy
After chilling, serve the pasta salad cold. It’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a side dish for any meal. Enjoy your bright, fresh Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta will work just as well and adds a nuttier flavor and extra fiber. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as whole wheat pasta may require a minute or two more to reach al dente.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. It adds a nice tang and creamy texture. Alternatively, you can blend avocado to create a creamy dressing without mayonnaise.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftover pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about 2-3 days. Just be aware that the avocado may brown, so it’s best to add it fresh if possible, or consider using lime juice to help keep it vibrant!
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding bell peppers, cucumbers, or even black beans for extra protein. Just make sure to chop everything into small, bite-sized pieces so they blend well with the pasta. Enjoy customizing!
