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Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad

Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad: A Refreshing Summer Favorite

A vibrant Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad that's perfect for summer gatherings, combining fresh ingredients and a creamy dressing.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Chilling Time 15 minutes
Total Time 42 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 16 oz Bow Tie Pasta Feel free to swap with any short pasta like rotini.
  • 1.5 cups Corn Kernels Fresh corn adds sweetness; canned or frozen can be used if time is tight.
  • 1.5 cups Cherry Tomatoes Grape tomatoes are a tasty substitute.
  • 0.5 small Red Onion, chopped or sliced Green onions work well as an alternative.
  • 2 Tbsp Cilantro, finely chopped Use both leaves and stems for maximum flavor.
  • 1-2 units Avocado, diced Add just before serving for freshness.
  • Cotija Cheese (optional) Feta or dairy-free options can replace it.
For the Dressing
  • 0.5 cup Plain Greek Yogurt Sour cream can be a great alternative.
  • 0.25 cup Fresh Lime Juice Adjust the quantity to your taste.
  • 0.25 cup Cilantro, roughly chopped Customize the amount according to your preference.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Roasting first can mellow out intensity.
  • 0.5 tsp Salt Adjust to your palate.
  • 0.125 tsp Cayenne Leave it out for a milder dressing.

Equipment

  • food processor
  • Large pot
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a food processor, combine ½ cup plain Greek yogurt, ¼ cup fresh lime juice, ¼ cup roughly chopped cilantro, 2 garlic cloves, ½ teaspoon salt, and ⅛ teaspoon cayenne. Blend until smooth, then refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add 16 ounces of bow tie pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 10-12 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. Prepare salad ingredients: boil 1½ cups of corn kernels (if using fresh), dice 1½ cups of cherry tomatoes, chop ½ small red onion, and finely chop 2 tablespoons of cilantro.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the prepared corn, diced tomatoes, chopped onion, and cilantro. Toss gently.
  5. Pour the chilled dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Toss to coat everything evenly.
  6. Serve in bowls or a large dish, adding diced avocado and crumbled cotija cheese just before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 12gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For the best flavors, ensure ingredients are fresh and adjust dressing quantities based on pasta amount.

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