This fresh pasta salad is packed with bright flavors from cilantro and lime. It’s light, zesty, and perfect for warm days or gatherings. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up!
I love how this salad comes together quickly! Just toss cooked pasta with some diced veggies, a squeeze of lime, and lots of cilantro. It’s a win for both taste and time! 🌿🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bowtie Pasta: Farfalle is fantastic for this salad, but you can swap it for any pasta shape you like, such as rotini or penne. Just ensure it cooks to al dente for the best texture!
Corn: Fresh corn adds a sweet crunch. If fresh corn isn’t available, use frozen corn, thawed, or even canned corn. Drain it well before adding to the salad.
Avocado: I recommend using a ripe avocado for its creamy texture. If you want, substitute with diced cucumber for a crunchier option, though the flavor will be different.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro provides a bright flavor. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try fresh parsley or basil as a substitute. They each give a unique taste to the salad.
Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: If you’re avoiding these, you can use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo for a healthier, lighter dressing that still has creaminess.
How Can You Get the Pasta Just Right?
Cooking pasta might seem simple, but getting it perfectly al dente is key for this salad. Here’s how to nail it:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil before adding your pasta.
- Cook according to package instructions, but start checking for doneness a minute early.
- Once it’s al dente, drain it quickly, then rinse under cold water. This stops the cooking process and prevents sticking.
Following these steps keeps your pasta firm for the perfect salad texture! Enjoy your cooking! 🌟
Easy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels (cut from about 2 ears of corn)
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- Zest of 1 lime
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. In total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and easy dish, especially on warm days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water until it’s cool. This helps to stop the cooking process and keeps the pasta from being sticky. Drain it well to remove excess water.
2. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, fresh corn kernels, diced avocado, finely chopped red onion, and half of the fresh cilantro. This combination of colorful ingredients makes the salad not only tasty but visually appealing too!
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime zest, lime juice, and minced garlic. Add a pinch of salt and pepper, then mix until the dressing is smooth and creamy. The lime will give it a zesty kick!
4. Combine Dressing with Salad:
Pour the cilantro lime dressing over the pasta mixture. Gently toss everything together to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to mash the avocado while stirring!
5. Garnish and Chill:
Garnish the top with the remaining cilantro for a fresh look. Then, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, serve the salad cold or at room temperature. It’s perfect for barbecues, picnics, or as a light side dish. Enjoy your vibrant and creamy cilantro lime pasta salad!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta (farfalle) is featured in this recipe, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or even whole wheat pasta. Just be sure to cook it al dente!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this pasta salad vegan, simply substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan mayo and plant-based yogurt or a creamy, dairy-free dressing. This will keep the creamy texture while making it suitable for a vegan diet!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier! Just give it a good stir before serving again.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! This salad is very versatile, so feel free to add in other vegetables like bell peppers, cucumber, or even some spinach for added color and nutrition. Just remember to chop them into small pieces for the best texture.
