Fresh & Healthy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
This refreshing Fresh & Healthy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad is packed with crisp vegetables, vibrant cilantro, and a zesty lime dressing. Light, flavorful, and easy to make, it’s the perfect healthy side dish or meal prep option for warm days.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta rotini, bowtie, or penne
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup cucumber chopped
- 1/2 cup corn fresh, canned, or frozen
- 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- For the dressing:
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey optional
- 1 clove garlic minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional add-ins:
- Avocado
- Black beans
- Grilled chicken
- Feta or cotija cheese
Instructions
- Cook the pasta:
- Bring salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Prepare ingredients:
- Chop vegetables, slice onion, and chop cilantro.
- Make the dressing:
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Combine:
- In a large bowl, add pasta, vegetables, and cilantro. Pour dressing over and toss until evenly coated.
- Chill and serve:
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Serve cold.
Notes
- Use fresh lime juice for best flavor.
- Cook pasta al dente for better texture.
- Add cilantro just before serving for freshness.
- Stir before serving and adjust dressing if needed.
- Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.