Introduction
Fresh and vibrant, this Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad is the perfect dish for any occasion. With a delightful blend of colorful veggies and a creamy dressing, it’s both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you’re serving it at a picnic, a family gathering, or just for a quick weeknight dinner, this pasta salad is sure to make a splash!
Ingredients
- 8 oz whole wheat pasta (e.g., fusilli or penne)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pasta, cherry tomatoes, corn, black beans, bell peppers, and avocado.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the lime juice, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mixture and gently toss to combine.
- Add the chopped cilantro and toss again. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to substitute the whole wheat pasta with any pasta of your choice.
- Add more veggies like cucumbers or carrots for extra crunch!
- For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños.
- This salad can be made a day ahead for better flavor.
Cooking Techniques
Cooking the pasta to an al dente texture ensures it remains firm and holds up well against the creamy dressing. Rinsing the pasta with cold water not only cools it down but also prevents it from becoming mushy.
FAQ
- Can I make this salad vegan? Yes, just replace the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with vegan alternatives.
- How long can I store the pasta salad? It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- What can I use if I don’t have fresh cilantro? Parsley can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will be different.
- Can I prepare this in advance? Absolutely! Preparing it a few hours ahead allows the flavors to deepen.
Conclusion
This Fresh Healthy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad not only bursts with flavor but also nourishes your body with wholesome ingredients. It’s perfect for any meal and a wonderful way to enjoy a hint of zest with every bite. Enjoy your cooking adventure!