Fresh & Healthy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad Recipe
Introduction
This Fresh & Healthy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad is packed with vibrant flavors and a super creamy texture thanks to a Greek yogurt avocado dressing. It’s a perfect light meal or side dish that’s easy to prepare and bursting with fresh ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 batch Greek Yogurt Avocado Salad Dressing (double the cilantro and omit the parsley)
- 1 box (375g) short pasta (rotini, fusilli, or penne), cooked according to package directions
- 1 can (19 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (12 oz) corn, drained and rinsed
- 1 medium cucumber, chopped
- 1 small red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese or cojita cheese, crumbled
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- Lime juice (optional, to squeeze on top)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the cilantro lime dressing by blending the Greek yogurt avocado dressing ingredients together, making sure to double the cilantro and leave out the parsley. Set the dressing aside.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chickpeas, corn, chopped cucumber, and diced red onion.
- Step 3: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until all ingredients are well coated.
- Step 4: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top and gently toss to mix it into the salad.
- Step 5: Serve the salad garnished with fresh cilantro leaves and an optional squeeze of lime juice. Enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary preferences.
- Add chopped avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
- Substitute feta cheese with vegan cheese to make this salad dairy-free.
- For a bit of crunch, add toasted pepitas or sunflower seeds before serving.
Storage
Store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving, as the dressing may settle. This salad is best enjoyed cold but can be brought to room temperature if preferred. Avoid freezing, as the creamy dressing may separate.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad actually tastes better after the flavors have melded for a few hours. Prepare it up to a day in advance and keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.
What can I use if I don’t have Greek yogurt?
You can substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative to maintain the creamy texture of the dressing.
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Fresh & Healthy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Fresh & Healthy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad is a vibrant and creamy dish perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing side. Featuring a super creamy Greek Yogurt Avocado dressing loaded with cilantro and lime, this salad combines cooked pasta, chickpeas, corn, cucumber, red onion, and feta cheese for a well-balanced, flavorful meal that’s quick to prepare and delightfully satisfying.
Ingredients
Dressing
- 1 batch Greek Yogurt Avocado Salad Dressing (double the cilantro and omit parsley)
Salad
- 375g box short pasta (rotini, fusilli, or penne), cooked according to package directions
- 1 can (19 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (12 oz) corn, drained and rinsed
- 1 medium cucumber, chopped
- 1 small red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese or cotija cheese, crumbled
- Cilantro leaves (optional, for garnish)
- Lime juice (optional, to squeeze on top)
Instructions
- Make the Dressing: Blitz all cilantro lime dressing ingredients together in a blender or food processor until smooth and creamy. Set aside for later use.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the cooked and cooled pasta, drained chickpeas, drained corn, chopped cucumber, and diced red onion.
- Add Dressing: Drizzle the prepared cilantro lime dressing over the mixed salad ingredients, then toss thoroughly until everything is well-coated with the creamy dressing.
- Incorporate Cheese: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly on top of the salad and gently toss again to incorporate the cheese without breaking it down too much.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve the salad garnished with fresh cilantro leaves and an optional squeeze of fresh lime juice for added brightness. Enjoy immediately or chill for later.
Notes
- Use short pasta shapes like rotini, fusilli, or penne for the best texture and coating of the dressing.
- The salad can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours; toss again before serving.
- For a vegan version, substitute Greek yogurt dressing with a plant-based yogurt alternative and omit feta cheese.
- Add extra lime juice or cilantro for more vibrant flavor if desired.
- Ensure chickpeas and corn are well rinsed to avoid excess sodium from canned liquids.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cilantro lime pasta salad, creamy pasta salad, vegetarian pasta salad, healthy pasta salad, avocado yogurt dressing, summer salad
