Description
This refreshing Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad combines whole wheat or gluten-free pasta with fresh vegetables and a zesty lime dressing. Packed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, corn, and fresh cilantro, it’s a vibrant and healthy dish perfect for a light lunch or a side salad at your next gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 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 the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
- Prepare the vegetables: Wash and chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion into bite-sized pieces. Place them into a large mixing bowl.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.
- Combine salad ingredients: Add the cooled pasta, corn, and chopped cilantro into the large bowl with vegetables. Gently fold all ingredients together to combine evenly.
- Add dressing: Drizzle the lime dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to ensure everything is coated thoroughly with the dressing.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the salad and add more salt or pepper if needed to enhance the flavors.
- Chill before serving: Cover the salad and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to let the flavors meld and for a refreshing taste before serving.
Notes
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary preferences.
- Fresh, frozen, or canned corn are all suitable for this recipe.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
- This salad can be prepared a few hours ahead and stored chilled for better flavor.
- Serve as a light main dish or as a side salad to grilled meats or fish.
