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Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad

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This Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad is zesty, fresh, and full of flavor! Tender pasta is tossed with a creamy cilantro-lime dressing, crunchy veggies, and optional add-ins like black beans or corn. It’s a fun twist on traditional pasta salad and makes a perfect side dish or light meal.

Ingredients

Scale

For the salad:

  • 12 oz rotini or bowtie pasta

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or thawed frozen)

  • 1 red bell pepper, diced

  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

  • 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)

  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

For the dressing:

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise

  • 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

  • Juice of 2 limes

  • Zest of 1 lime

  • 1 clove garlic, minced

  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 2 tbsp finely chopped cilantro (extra from above)

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.

  2. In a small bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

  3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, tomatoes, corn, bell pepper, onion, black beans (if using), and chopped cilantro.

  4. Pour dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.

  5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.

  6. Garnish with extra lime wedges or cilantro, if desired.

Notes

  • Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangier, lighter option.

  • Add grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a full meal.

  • Great for meal prep β€” keeps well in the fridge for 3–4 days.