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Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad – Fresh, Zesty & Perfect for Summer

A vibrant pasta salad bursting with bright lime, fresh cilantro, crunchy veggies, and tender pasta—perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or a refreshing lunch! 🎉 Introduction This Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad is everything you want in a summer side: crisp, creamy, and bursting with flavor. Zesty lime and fresh cilantro bring a Mexican-inspired twist, while tender pasta, crunchy bell peppers, and a creamy dressing make it satisfying and crave-worthy. Serve it with grilled chicken, tacos, or enjoy it as a stand-alone dish. 🌿🍋
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

🥗 Salad
  • 3 cups cooked pasta rotini, penne, or farfalle
  • 1 cup red bell pepper diced
  • 1 cup corn fresh, frozen, or canned
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • ½ cup red onion finely diced
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro chopped
🍋 Creamy Cilantro Lime Dressing
  • ½ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • 3 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1 tbsp lime zest
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot (for pasta)
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk or jar for dressing
  • Cutting board & knife
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Colander

Method
 

Step 1: Cook & Cool the Pasta
  1. Cook pasta in salted water until al dente; drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Set aside to cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
  1. In a bowl or jar, whisk together mayo, sour cream, lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
  1. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, bell pepper, corn, tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.
  2. Pour dressing over salad and toss until everything is well coated.
Step 4: Chill & Serve
  1. Cover and refrigerate at least 30 minutes for flavors to meld.
  2. Serve chilled, garnished with extra cilantro or lime wedges.

Notes

🥄 Variations
Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans
Spicy Kick: Stir in diced jalapeño or hot sauce
Avocado: Add diced avocado just before serving for creaminess
Vegan: Use vegan mayo and skip sour cream or sub with plant-based yogurt
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta
🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead
Fridge: Store in an airtight container up to 4 days
Make Ahead: Prepare dressing and pasta separately; combine before serving
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh lime juice gives the best flavor.
What pasta shapes work best?
Rotini, penne, or farfalle hold dressing well.
Can I skip cilantro?
Yes—sub with parsley or leave out.
How do I keep pasta from clumping?
Rinse with cold water and toss with a little olive oil.
Can I serve it warm?
It’s best chilled, but works at room temp.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes—mild flavors are great for kids.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—perfect for feeding a crowd.
What pairs well?
Grilled meats, tacos, or quesadillas.
Can I freeze it?
No—texture will be compromised.
What if I don’t like creamy dressings?
Use a vinaigrette: olive oil, lime juice, cumin, and cilantro.
🏁 Conclusion
This Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad is fresh, zesty, and packed with texture—perfect for warm-weather meals, parties, or a quick lunch. Creamy, bright, and utterly satisfying, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! 🌿🍋🥗