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Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings together al dente pasta, fresh cilantro, and zesty lime with colorful vegetables and creamy avocado. It is perfect for outdoor gatherings like picnics or BBQs where light and bright flavors can really shine. This quick and easy salad comes together in minutes and is endlessly customizable to suit your favorite ingredients or whatever you have on hand.
I first made this salad for a summer potluck and it was gone in no time. Now I bring it whenever I want something fresh and crowd-pleasing without a lot of fuss.
Ingredients
- Pasta: Eight ounces short pasta like rotini or penne to hold the dressing nicely
- Cherry tomatoes: One cup cherry tomatoes halved for a burst of juicy sweetness
- Avocado: One ripe avocado diced for creamy texture and healthy fats
- Cilantro: Half cup fresh cilantro chopped to add bright, herbal notes, look for vibrant green leaves without wilting
- Red onion: Quarter cup thinly sliced red onion to add subtle sharpness and crunch
- Olive oil: Quarter cup good quality olive oil to emulsify the dressing and bring richness
- Lime juice: Juice of two limes, about quarter cup, for fresh zesty acidity
- Salt and pepper: to taste for seasoning balance
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions in plenty of salted water until just al dente. This ensures a nice bite and prevents mushiness. Drain well and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool it for the salad.
- Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, thoroughly whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Take your time to emulsify the dressing so it coats the pasta evenly.
- Chop the Vegetables:
- Chop the cherry tomatoes, avocado, cilantro, and red onion into bite-sized pieces. Uniform pieces make the salad easier to eat and create a pretty presentation.
- Combine the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta and chopped veggies. Pour the lime dressing over the bowl and gently toss everything together, being careful not to mash the avocado.
- Chill Before Serving:
- Place the salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and keeps the salad refreshing when served.
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Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The salad is best eaten fresh to enjoy the creamy texture of the avocado before it starts to brown or get mushy. If needed, add a squeeze of fresh lime before serving to brighten it up again.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have cilantro, fresh parsley can be a nice mild substitute but the flavor will be different. Lime juice can be replaced with lemon juice for a slightly less tart note. Avocado can be swapped for diced cucumber or roasted sweet potato for a different texture and flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a light and balanced meal. Serve alongside tacos or burritos to add a fresh contrast to warm spices. Add in black beans or corn for extra heartiness and color.
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Cultural Context
Cilantro and lime are staples in Mexican cooking and add unmistakable brightness to dishes. This pasta salad blends that traditional flavor profile with Italian style pasta for a fun fusion that works great in casual American summer meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of pasta works best for this salad?
Short shapes like rotini or penne are ideal as they hold the dressing well and mix easily with chopped veggies.
- → Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes allows flavors to blend and enhances freshness before serving.
- → How do I keep the avocado from browning?
Using ripe but firm avocado and tossing it quickly with lime juice helps slow browning. Serve soon after mixing for best color.
- → Is this dish suitable for outdoor gatherings?
Absolutely, its fresh, bright flavors and easy transportability make it perfect for picnics, BBQs, and potlucks.
- → Can I adjust the seasoning to taste?
Yes, salt and pepper levels can be tailored, and additional ingredients like red onion add a sharp contrast if desired.