Zesty Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad Recipe for Summer Fun

Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad Recipe is like a party in your mouth, bringing together the zesty freshness of lime and the vibrant aroma of cilantro. Every bite is a delightful explosion of flavors that dance on your palate, making it impossible to resist going back for seconds.

Picture this: it’s a sunny afternoon, perfect for lounging outside with friends, and you unveil this colorful dish. The look of joy on their faces as they dig in is priceless. This pasta salad isn’t just food; it’s a memory-maker, ideal for barbecues, picnics, or simply a cozy dinner at home. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds!

Ingredients for Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: Use any pasta shape you love; I prefer rotini for its ability to hold onto dressing and flavors.

• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds vibrant flavor. Make sure it’s bright green and fragrant.

• Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens the dish; avoid bottled lime juice for best results.

• Cherry Tomatoes: These sweet little gems provide a juicy burst in every bite; halved before adding to the salad.

• Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion gives a nice crunch and mild sharpness; soak them in cold water if you want less bite.

• Bell Peppers: Any color works! They add sweetness and crunch; chop them into bite-sized pieces.

• Olive Oil: Good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the dressing’s flavor; use generously.

For the Dressing:

• Garlic: Minced garlic adds depth and richness; opt for fresh over powdered for maximum flavor.

• Salt and Pepper: Seasoning is key! Adjust these to taste for that perfect balance of flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your preferred pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the pasta cools, chop your cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and red onion. Place them in a large mixing bowl along with finely chopped cilantro.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together freshly squeezed lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with vegetables. Pour the dressing over everything and toss gently until all ingredients are well coated.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Let it chill in the refrigerator for at least thirty minutes so all those flavors can meld beautifully.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer your beautiful cilantro lime pasta salad to a serving dish or individual plates. Garnish with extra cilantro if desired for that “wow” factor!

This cilantro lime pasta salad recipe is not just easy—it’s also packed with fresh ingredients that burst with flavor! Imagine serving this at your next barbecue or picnic; it’ll steal the spotlight from all other dishes! Enjoy every colorful bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions while you prep your veggies. Once the pasta is al dente, drain it and toss in a bit of olive oil. Meanwhile, mix up your cilantro lime dressing for maximum flavor infusion.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you love! Add black beans for protein, avocado for creaminess, or even a hint of jalapeño for some heat. The possibilities are endless when crafting your cilantro lime pasta salad recipe.

Storing & Reheating

Store your cilantro lime pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you need to reheat it, do so gently in the microwave or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge.

Sometimes I whip up this cilantro lime pasta salad recipe for last-minute gatherings, and my friends rave about it! It’s always a hit, and I love seeing everyone devour seconds.

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for the Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad Recipe?

For the cilantro lime pasta salad recipe, you will need pasta (such as rotini or penne), fresh cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, cherry tomatoes, red onion, bell peppers, corn, and black beans. You can also add avocado for creaminess and season with salt and pepper. This combination of ingredients creates a refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings or quick lunches.

How long does the Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad last in the fridge?

The cilantro lime pasta salad can last in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days when stored properly in an airtight container. To maintain its freshness, it’s best to store the dressing separately until just before serving. This way, the pasta won’t absorb too much moisture and become mushy over time.

Can I customize the Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad Recipe?

Absolutely! The cilantro lime pasta salad recipe is highly customizable. You can swap out vegetables based on your preference or what’s in season. Adding proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp can make it heartier. For a vegan option, keep it plant-based by using chickpeas instead of meat and ensuring all your ingredients are vegan-friendly.

Is the Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version of the cilantro lime pasta salad recipe, simply use gluten-free pasta made from rice, quinoa, or legumes. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities while still being delicious and satisfying.

Conclusion for Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad Recipe :

The cilantro lime pasta salad recipe is a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for various occasions. With fresh ingredients like cilantro, lime juice, and colorful veggies, it offers a delightful blend of tastes. Whether served at a picnic or as a side at dinner, this salad stands out as a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy customizing it to suit your taste preferences while keeping it light and refreshing!

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Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish that combines the zesty flavor of lime with the aromatic essence of fresh cilantro. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or quick weeknight dinners, this salad features colorful vegetables and a delightful dressing that will tantalize your taste buds. Each bite is an explosion of freshness, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Customize it to suit your preferences by adding your favorite ingredients for an extra personal touch!

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Ingredients

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• 8 oz rotini pasta
• 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (about 2 limes)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup bell peppers (any color), diced
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the rotini pasta in salted water until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, red onion, and cilantro.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Add the cooled pasta to the vegetable mixture and pour the dressing over. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
5. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (220g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 0mg