Description
A fresh and zesty Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad featuring whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, vibrant vegetables, and a tangy lime dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or a flavorful side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Vegetables
- 2 cups Pasta (whole wheat or gluten-free)
- 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (halved)
- 1 cup Cucumber (diced)
- 1 medium Bell Pepper (chopped)
- 1 small Red Onion (finely chopped)
- 1 cup Corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 bunch Fresh Cilantro (chopped)
Dressing
- 1/4 cup Olive Oil (or avocado oil)
- 1/4 cup Fresh Lime Juice (or lemon juice)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta.
- Prepare Vegetables: Wash and chop cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and finely chop red onion into bite-sized pieces. Place all chopped vegetables in a large bowl.
- Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined and emulsified.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: Add the cooled pasta, corn, and chopped fresh cilantro to the bowl with vegetables. Gently fold the mixture together to combine evenly.
- Add Dressing: Drizzle the lime dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to coat all ingredients with the dressing.
- Season to Taste: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or lime juice to preference.
- Chill: Cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and serve cool.
Notes
- This salad can be made with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary preferences.
- Use fresh corn for best texture, but frozen or canned corn works well too; if using frozen, thaw first, and if canned, drain well.
- The salad is best served chilled but can be served immediately if needed.
- Adjust the lime juice and garlic quantities to taste for a milder or more intense flavor.
- For added protein, consider adding grilled chicken or beans.
