Cilantro-Lime Pasta Salad

Cilantro-Lime Pasta Salad 🌿🍋

A vibrant, zesty pasta salad bursting with fresh cilantro, tangy lime, and crisp veggies—perfect for picnics, BBQs, or a light lunch!

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 25 mins (+ chilling)

Serves: 6-8

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 12 oz (340g) pasta (fusilli, penne, or bowtie)

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 avocado, diced

• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped

• 1/3 cup black beans, rinsed (optional)

• 1/3 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or grilled)

• 1/4 cup crumbled feta or cotija cheese (omit for vegan)

• 1/4 cup toasted pepitas or sunflower seeds (for crunch)

• Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (about 1/2 cup)

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 3 tbsp fresh lime juice (1–2 limes)

• 1 tbsp honey or agave

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1 tsp lime zest

• 1/2 tsp ground cumin

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta al dente according to package instructions. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.

2. Make the dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey, garlic, lime zest, cumin, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.

3. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, tomatoes, avocado, red onion, black beans, corn, and half the cilantro.

4. Toss with dressing, then gently fold in cheese and pepitas.

5. Chill for 30+ minutes (to let flavors meld) before serving. Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges.

Tips & Variations

• Make ahead: Prep dressing and chop veggies in advance; combine before serving.

• Protein boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.

• Creamier option: Stir in 2 tbsp Greek yogurt or avocado crema.

• No avocado? Substitute diced cucumber for freshness.

This salad is bright, herbaceous, and slightly addictive—great alongside grilled meats or as a standalone meal! 🌱💚

Would you like a spicier version (with jalapeños) or a creamy cilantro-lime dressing alternative? Let me know!