This bright and zesty pasta salad is perfect for warm days! With fresh cilantro, a splash of lime, and colorful veggies, it brings a burst of flavor to your table.
Who knew pasta could be so refreshing? I love serving it at picnics or as a side dish. It’s simple to whip up, and you’ll feel like a superstar chef! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Farfalle Pasta: This bow tie pasta is great for catching the dressing and bits of veggies. If you’re out of farfalle, any pasta shape like fusilli or rotini will work just as well!
Cherry Tomatoes: They add a burst of sweetness. If not available, substitute with diced regular tomatoes or even sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor.
Corn Kernels: Fresh corn is fantastic, but frozen corn works just fine too, as it’s quick and easy! You could also use canned corn; just rinse it first.
Avocado: Diced avocado adds creaminess. If you’re not an avocado fan, try diced cucumber for crunch or omit it altogether for a lighter salad.
Cilantro: This herb offers a fresh taste. If you’re not fond of cilantro, you can switch it out for parsley or mint. Each brings a unique flavor!
How Can I Make Sure My Pasta Is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking pasta may seem straightforward, but getting it right can make a big difference! You want it al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite to it. Here’s how:
- Start with plenty of salted water—this adds flavor!
- Follow the package instructions for cooking time.
- Check for doneness a minute before the suggested time—taste it! It should be firm but not hard.
- Once done, drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
How to Make Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Veggies:
- 8 oz farfalle pasta (bow tie pasta)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Dressing:
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad takes about 15 minutes of preparation time, plus an optional chilling time of about 30 minutes in the refrigerator. You’ll spend a few minutes cooking the pasta and mixing the fresh ingredients together. It’s quick, refreshing, and perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the farfalle pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente—this usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once it’s cooked, drain it and rinse under cold water to cool it down. Transfer the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl.
2. Add Fresh Ingredients:
Now, it’s time to add all the colorful and tasty ingredients! In the bowl with the pasta, mix in the halved cherry tomatoes, corn kernels, diced avocado, finely chopped red onion, and chopped cilantro. Stir gently to combine.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until everything is well blended. This dressing will give your pasta salad a zesty flavor!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are nicely coated. Be careful not to mash the avocado!
5. Taste and Serve:
Give your salad a quick taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. You can serve it right away, or for the best flavor, let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes so all the yummy tastes meld together.
Can I Use Another Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute farfalle with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or fusilli. Just remember to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep the avocado from browning, sprinkle a little extra lime juice on it. When ready to eat, give it a gentle toss before serving!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Of course! This salad is very versatile. You can easily add bell peppers, cucumbers, or even black beans for extra flavor and nutrition. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and mix them in with the other ingredients.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
This salad is already vegan-friendly! Just double-check your olive oil, and you’re good to go. It’s packed with fresh ingredients and colorful veggies, making it a light and healthy option!
