Go Back
–+ servings
Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad

Zesty Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad for Vibrant Summer Days

A refreshing Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad bursting with vibrant flavors, packed with protein-rich chickpeas and nutritious vegetables, perfect for summer gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Dressing
  • 1 cup Greek Yogurt Adds creaminess and protein
  • 1 Avocado Makes the dressing extra smooth and rich
  • 2 tablespoons Lime Juice Fresh juice offers the best flavor
  • 1 clove Garlic Minced or crushed for great taste
  • 0.5 cup Cilantro Adjust to taste for cilantro lovers and haters alike
Salad
  • 8 ounces Pasta Short pasta like rotini, fusilli, or penne, cooked al dente
  • 1 can Chickpeas Drained and rinsed
  • 1 can Corn Drained and rinsed, frozen corn can be used
  • 1 medium Cucumber Chopped, any variety will do
  • 1 small Red Onion Diced, green onions can be a milder option
  • 0.5 cup Feta Cheese or Cotija Cheese Skip for a dairy-free version
  • 0.25 cup Cilantro Optional, for garnish

Equipment

  • Blender
  • large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • spatula

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a blender, combine Greek yogurt, avocado, fresh lime juice, minced garlic, and cilantro. Blend on high until smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add short pasta, cooking according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
  3. In the bowl with the cooled pasta, add the drained and rinsed chickpeas, corn, chopped cucumber, and diced red onion. Gently toss together.
  4. Drizzle your creamy cilantro lime dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
  5. Sprinkle the crumbled feta or Cotija cheese over the top of your dressed salad and mix in lightly.
  6. Transfer the salad to a serving dish or individual bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and a squeeze of lime juice before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 9gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 6gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This pasta salad is perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. For freshness, keep some dressing to drizzle upon serving.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!