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Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad

Zesty Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad: A Creamy Protein Boost

This Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad is a vibrant dish with a creamy texture and a protein boost, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Best Recipe Ideas
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Greek Yogurt substitute with regular yogurt for a similar taste
  • 1 medium Avocado ensure it’s ripe or omit if not available
  • 2 tablespoons Lime Juice use fresh lime for the best flavor
For the Salad
  • 8 ounces Pasta (short varieties like rotini, fusilli, or penne) cooked al dente; swap with quinoa for a gluten-free option
  • 1 can Chickpeas drained and rinsed; can be replaced with black beans for diversity
  • 1 can Corn drained and rinsed; fresh corn is ideal in summer
  • 1 medium Cucumber chopped; use English cucumbers to minimize seeds
  • 1 small Red Onion diced; substitute with sweet onion for a milder taste
  • ½ cup Feta Cheese or Cotija Cheese crumbled; omit for a dairy-free version
For Garnish
  • Fresh Cilantro optional; omit if you’re not a fan
  • Extra Lime Juice optional; adjust to taste

Equipment

  • Blender
  • Large Pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a blender, combine the Greek yogurt, ripe avocado, fresh lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and creamy for about 1-2 minutes. Set aside for 10-15 minutes.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add short pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled, drained pasta with chickpeas, drained corn, chopped cucumber, and diced red onion. Mix gently until evenly distributed.
  4. Pour the creamy dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat.
  5. Fold in the crumbled cheese and squeeze extra lime juice over the top if desired. Stir gently to combine.
  6. Transfer the salad to a serving dish, garnish with cilantro if using, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 12gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 10gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Letting the salad chill for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavors, making it even more delicious. Store dressing separately to maintain fresh veggies.

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