Meet Your New Kitchen BFF
Looking for a quick, flavorful dish that screams sunshine and good vibes? Say hello to cilantro lime pasta salad—a zesty, fresh delight that’s ready in a flash and turns ordinary pantry staples into extraordinary flavor!
Homemade always beats store-bought; plus, you get to tweak it just the way you like—more lime zing, extra cilantro crunch, or a touch of heat. The aroma alone is enough to make your kitchen smell like a Callé Mexican fiesta—bright, punchy, and downright irresistible.
And here’s the twist—it’s so simple, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make this sooner. Grab your pasta, lime, and cilantro, then toss away! (Don’t worry, no actual tossing required—well, maybe a little.) Feeling adventurous? Pair it with your favorite salsa or a cool dip to kick things up a notch. Ready to get started? Let’s go!
Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- Using a citrus juicer, squeeze fresh lime juice into a small bowl. Mince the garlic clove finely and add it to the lime juice to infuse. Whisk in olive oil, salt, and black pepper until well combined, creating a flavorful vinaigrette.8 oz penne pasta
- Pour the lime vinaigrette over the cooled pasta. Add the chopped cilantro leaves and toss gently with tongs or a large spoon to evenly coat the pasta with the dressing and distribute the herbs. The mixture should be brightly colored and slightly shiny from the dressing.8 oz penne pasta
- Allow the salad to sit for 5-10 minutes to let flavors meld. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt or lime juice for extra brightness. Serve chilled or at room temperature with a sprinkle of additional cilantro for garnish.
- Optional: Garnish with extra cilantro leaves or a wedge of lime before serving for a fresh finishing touch. Present on a plate or in a bowl, showing the colorful herbs and glossy pasta.8 oz penne pasta
This cilantro lime pasta salad is sure to brighten any meal—perfect for picnics, cookouts, or quick weeknight dinners. For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some crumbled queso fresco or add chopped avocado before serving. Don’t forget to share your creations and tag us—happy cooking! Your new favorite salad awaits just a forkful away.