This Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad is a refreshing treat that combines pasta with a zesty lime dressing and fresh cilantro. It’s light, colorful, and packed with flavor!
I love making this salad for picnics or BBQs because it’s so easy and everyone enjoys it. Plus, who can resist that burst of lime? It’s like a party in a bowl! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Farfalle Pasta: This fun bowtie pasta adds a unique shape to the salad. If you can’t find farfalle, any pasta works well, like fusilli or rotini. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is key for flavor. If you’re not a fan, parsley is a great substitute as it adds a mild herbal note. Some people even like basil for a different twist!
Greek Yogurt: This gives a creamy texture and tang. You can swap it with regular yogurt, sour cream, or even a dairy-free alternative like cashew yogurt for a lighter option.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brings brightness to the salad. In a pinch, lemon juice can be used as it has a similar acidic kick. You might need a touch more for the same zesty effect!
How Do I Cook Pasta to Perfection?
Cooking pasta may seem simple, but a few tips can ensure it turns out just right. First, always use plenty of water; it should be like a big pot of boiling space for the pasta to move freely.
- Salt the water generously before adding the pasta for flavor.
- Stir the pasta after putting it in the pot to prevent sticking.
- Cook until al dente, or firm to the bite, usually 1-2 minutes less than package directions.
- Rinse under cold water immediately after draining to halt cooking and cool it down for your salad.
How to Make Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Veggies:
- 8 oz farfalle (bowtie pasta)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup corn (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- 1/4 cup lime juice (approximately 2-3 limes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad takes about 10 minutes to prep and an additional 30 minutes to chill. In just under an hour, you can have a delicious and vibrant salad ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the farfalle pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which means it should still have a little bite to it. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down quickly and stop the cooking process. This will help keep your pasta from getting mushy.
2. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, corn, finely chopped red onion, and freshly chopped cilantro. These fresh ingredients will add great color and flavor to your salad!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lime juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until everything is smooth and well combined. This creamy dressing will give your salad a zesty kick!
4. Toss Your Salad:
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is nicely coated. Be careful not to mash the avocado too much; you want to keep those lovely chunks!
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl and place the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will allow all the flavors to meld together. Once chilled, serve your delicious pasta salad cold, and feel free to garnish with extra cilantro if you like. Enjoy this refreshing dish!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While farfalle works great for this salad, you can use any short pasta like penne, rotini, or bowties. Just ensure to cook it al dente, rinse with cold water, and let it cool before mixing with the other ingredients.
What If I Don’t Have Greek Yogurt?
No problem! You can substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream or even a plant-based yogurt if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. The flavors will still blend beautifully with the lime dressing. If slight tanginess is desired, consider adding a splash of vinegar.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the avocado may brown slightly, so to minimize this, you can add a bit of extra lime juice before storing. Give it a good toss before serving again!
Can I Add More Ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite ingredients. Black beans, bell peppers, or even diced cucumbers would all make delicious additions. Just remember to adjust the dressing quantity if you add extra ingredients to keep everything well-coated!
