Description

A refreshing cilantro lime pasta salad combining al dente pasta with fresh cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, corn, and a zesty lime dressing infused with garlic and cilantro. Perfect as a light lunch or a side dish for your summer meals.

Ingredients

Pasta and Vegetables

2 cups Pasta (whole wheat or gluten-free)
1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (halved)
1 cup Cucumber (diced)
1 medium Bell Pepper (chopped)
1 small Red Onion (finely chopped)
1 cup Corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 bunch Fresh Cilantro (chopped)

Dressing

1/4 cup Olive Oil (or avocado oil)
1/4 cup Fresh Lime Juice (or lemon juice)
2 cloves Garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon Salt
1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper

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Instructions

Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Then drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
Prepare Vegetables: Wash and chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.
Combine Ingredients: Add the cooled pasta, corn, and chopped fresh cilantro to the bowl with the vegetables. Gently fold the ingredients together to distribute evenly.
Dress the Salad: Drizzle the prepared lime dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to coat all ingredients thoroughly with the dressing.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lime juice to your preference.
Chill Before Serving: Cover the salad and refrigerate it for 15-30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and serve chilled for best taste.

Notes

This salad is best served chilled but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Use gluten-free pasta if you need to make the recipe gluten-free.
Fresh lime juice gives the best flavor, but lemon juice can be substituted if needed.
Add avocado or feta cheese for extra creaminess and flavor, if not vegan.
Adjust the amount of garlic and lime juice according to your taste preference.