Zesty Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad for a Fresh Summer Feast

Why Make This Recipe

Summer is the perfect time for light, refreshing meals that are easy to prepare and delightful to eat. The Zesty Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad embodies this spirit with its bright flavors and vibrant colors. It’s not just a side dish; it can be a main dish too, making it versatile for picnics, barbecues, or family gatherings. Packed with fresh ingredients and zesty lime, this salad is a sure way to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds during hot summer days.

How to Make Zesty Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces Bowtie Pasta (Can substitute with fusilli or penne.)
• 1 can Corn (Drained and rinsed.)
• 1 Red Bell Pepper (Diced small.)
• ½ cup Cherry Tomatoes (Halved.)
• ½ Red Onion (Diced small.)
• ¼ cup Feta Cheese (Crumbling recommended.)
• ¾ cup Cilantro (Divided; parsley can substitute.)
• ½ cup Cilantro (Loosely packed.)
• ¼ cup Lime Juice (Approx. from 3-4 limes.)
• 1 each Lime Zest (Zest of 1 lime.)
• 1 Ripe Avocado (Smooth base for dressing.)
• 3 tbsp Mayonnaise (Could use avocado mayo.)
• 3 tbsp Greek Yogurt (Balancing creaminess.)
• 2 cloves Garlic (Provides savory depth.)
• ½ tsp Salt
• ⅛ tsp Black Pepper

Directions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling a pot of water. Add 8 ounces of the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

2. Prep the Veggies: While the pasta cooks, chop the red bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Rinse and drain the corn.

3. Mix the Dressing: In a blender, combine the ripe avocado, lime juice, lime zest, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.

4. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, corn, red bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. Pour the dressing over the pasta and mix well.

5. Add Cilantro: Fold in the ¾ cup of cilantro, reserving some for garnish. Mix until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.

6. Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

How to Serve Zesty Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad

Serve this salad chilled or at room temperature for the best taste. It pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or as a standalone meal. When serving, sprinkle some extra cilantro on top for a burst of freshness and color.

How to Store Zesty Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 2-3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as the dressing may settle.

Tips to Make Zesty Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad

• Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be firm for the salad.
• If you like more tang, add additional lime juice to your dressing.
• Allow the salad to chill for a couple of hours before serving for the best flavor.
• You can add proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.

Variation

If you want to switch things up, try adding black beans for extra fiber or avocado for creaminess. You can also use different types of cheese, like queso fresco or mozzarella, to change the flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge, and it will be ready to serve the next day.

2. What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy, like cucumber, zucchini, or shredded carrots. They will add crunch and flavor.

3. Is there a vegan option for the dressing?
Yes! You can replace the mayonnaise and Greek yogurt with avocado or a plant-based yogurt to make it vegan.

Zesty Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad

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• Author: jurgentukur
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A light and refreshing pasta salad with vibrant flavors, perfect for summer gatherings.

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Ingredients

• 8 ounces Bowtie Pasta
• 1 can Corn, drained and rinsed
• 1 Red Bell Pepper, diced small
• ½ cup Cherry Tomatoes, halved
• ½ Red Onion, diced small
• ¼ cup Feta Cheese, crumbling recommended
• ¾ cup Cilantro, divided
• ½ cup Cilantro, loosely packed
• ¼ cup Lime Juice, approx. from 3-4 limes
• Zest of 1 Lime
• 1 Ripe Avocado
• 3 tbsp Mayonnaise
• 3 tbsp Greek Yogurt
• 2 cloves Garlic
• ½ tsp Salt
• ⅛ tsp Black Pepper

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil water, add pasta, and cook until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. Prep the Veggies: Chop the red bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Rinse and drain the corn.
3. Mix the Dressing: In a blender, combine avocado, lime juice, lime zest, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix cooked pasta, corn, red bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. Add dressing and mix well.
5. Add Cilantro: Fold in ¾ cup cilantro and mix until evenly coated.
6. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Notes

For more tang, add additional lime juice. Allow to chill for best flavor.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Mexican