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Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad

Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
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Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad is a bright, refreshing, and easy-to-make summer dish that combines tender pasta with fresh cilantro, tangy lime, and crunchy vegetables. Perfect for picnics, BBQs, or light lunches, this versatile salad features a zesty dressing balanced with a hint of sweetness and can be customized with optional add-ins for protein or extra texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Vegetables

  • 8 oz rotini or penne pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Dressing

  • Juice and zest of 2 limes (about 3 tablespoons juice and 1 teaspoon zest)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Add-ins

  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels
  • Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu (to taste)
  • Chopped jalapeños or chili flakes, to taste
  • Toasted pepitas or sliced almonds, for topping
  • Crumbled feta or cotija cheese, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool and stop cooking, then set aside to drain thoroughly.
  2. Prepare the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together fresh lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, honey (or agave), salt, and pepper until well combined. This dressing balances tartness and sweetness beautifully and is the heart of the salad.
  3. Chop the Veggies and Herbs: Dice cherry tomatoes, thinly slice red onion, and chop fresh cilantro. These ingredients add freshness and vibrant color to the salad.
  4. Combine Everything: In a large bowl, toss the cooled pasta with the chopped vegetables and herbs. Pour the dressing over and mix well, ensuring every bite is coated with that zesty flavor. Add optional add-ins if desired.
  5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld perfectly. Before serving, gently toss again and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with extra cilantro, lime wedges, toasted seeds, or cheese if desired.

Notes

  • Use fresh lime juice and cilantro for the best flavor.
  • Do not overcook the pasta; keep it al dente for ideal texture.
  • Toss ingredients gently to preserve the integrity of vegetables.
  • Chill the salad to allow flavors to meld and intensify.
  • Adjust the sweetness by starting with less honey or agave and adding more if desired.
  • For gluten-free, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days; flavors improve but vegetables may soften.
  • Freezing is not recommended due to loss of texture and freshness.
  • This salad is best served cold or at room temperature; no reheating needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: cilantro lime pasta salad, summer pasta salad, cilantro pasta salad, lime pasta salad, gluten free pasta salad, picnic salad, BBQ side dish

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/cilantro-lime-pasta-salad/