Description
1 lb pasta (penne or rotini works well)
1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 medium red bell pepper, diced
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ red onion, thinly sliced
1 avocado, diced
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lime juice
1 tsp lime zest
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, then drain and rinse under cold water to cool it down.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cilantro, red bell pepper, corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and avocado.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to combine.
Chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve cold and enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes Total Time: 25 minutes Kcal: 250 per serving Servings: 6 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for the perfect pasta salad every time.
- Cook & Cool the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions for al dente. Once cooked, drain immediately and rinse thoroughly under cold running water until completely cool. This stops the cooking process and prevents a mushy salad.
- Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta cooks, chop the cilantro, dice the bell pepper and avocado, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. If using frozen corn, thaw it under running water and pat dry.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, vigorously whisk or shake together the olive oil, fresh lime juice, lime zest, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until fully emulsified.
- Combine & Marinate: In your large mixing bowl, gently combine the cooled pasta, all prepared vegetables, and avocado. Pour the dressing over the top. Using a large spoon or spatula, toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for a minimum of 30 minutes. This crucial step allows the flavors to deeply meld and develop.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad is perfect as a standalone light lunch or a vibrant side dish. For a complete meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken, shrimp, or black bean burgers. It’s an ideal make-ahead option for picnics, potlucks, and barbecues. Garnish with extra cilantro leaves and a lime wedge just before serving for a fresh presentation.
How-to Summary
Cook and cool pasta. Chop all fresh ingredients. Whisk dressing ingredients together. Combine everything in a large bowl, toss with dressing, and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. For best results, add the diced avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
What other herbs can I use instead of cilantro?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, fresh parsley or basil make excellent substitutes, offering a different but equally delicious flavor profile.
How can I add more protein to this salad?
Stir in one can of rinsed black beans, chickpeas, or two cups of shredded rotisserie chicken to transform it into a hearty main course.
My salad seems dry after chilling. What happened?
Pasta absorbs dressing as it sits. Simply whisk together an extra tablespoon each of olive oil and lime juice and toss it into the salad before serving.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes. Any short pasta with grooves or shapes that hold dressing well is suitable, such as fusilli, farfalle, or shells.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not rinsing the pasta: Skipping the cold rinse will result in warm, clumpy pasta that continues to cook and become soggy.
- Overcooking the pasta: Always aim for al dente, as the pasta will soften slightly while marinating in the dressing.
- Adding avocado too early: Mixing in the avocado before chilling can cause it to become mushy and discolored.
- Insufficient seasoning: Taste and adjust the salt, pepper, and lime juice after the salad has chilled, as cold mutes flavors.
Conclusion
This vibrant Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad is a celebration of fresh, zesty flavors and simple preparation. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common pitfalls, you can create a reliably delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its make-ahead convenience and customizable nature make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the bright, refreshing taste of this easy-to-master recipe.