Name: Creamy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad You'll Love This Summer
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Greek Yogurt; 1/4 cup Cilantro (Freshly chopped); 2 tablespoons Lime Juice (Freshly squeezed); 375 grams Pasta (like rotini, fusilli, or penne); 19 oz Chickpeas (Canned, drained and rinsed); 12 oz Corn (Canned, well-drained); 1 medium Cucumber (Chopped); 1 small Red Onion (Diced); 1/2 cup Feta Cheese (or Cotija, optional); Cilantro Leaves (Optional); Extra Lime Wedges (Optional)

With a crisp crunch and a creamy kiss, my kitchen transformed into a sunny garden the moment I whipped up this Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad. Bursting with humble yet vibrant ingredients like chickpeas, cucumber, and corn, this dish offers a refreshing escape from the daily grind. Made creamy with a zesty cilantro lime dressing that features protein-packed Greek yogurt, it’s not just delicious—it’s perfect for meal prepping or serving as a show-stopping side on warm evenings. Whether you’re craving a light lunch or a colorful accompaniment at your next BBQ, this healthy salad provides a delightful twist on classic pasta salads. Ready to elevate your summer dining experience with this recipe? Let’s dive in!

Why is this salad a summer essential?

Fresh, Vibrant Flavors: Your taste buds will dance with joy as the citrusy lime and fragrant cilantro unite in this salad.
Protein-Packed Goodness: With chickpeas and Greek yogurt, it’s not just a delicious dish but a nutritious powerhouse.
Perfectly Creamy Dressing: The dressing brings everything together, offering a rich creaminess that makes each bite delightful.
Versatile Meal Option: Whether it’s a quick lunch or a side at a backyard barbecue, this salad fits every occasion beautifully.
Easy Meal Prep: Make ahead and enjoy for days! Store it in the fridge for a refreshing bite anytime, just like the Quinoa Crunch Salad or Savory Butternut Pasta for more meal prep ideas!

Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad Ingredients

• Discover the delightful components of this dish!

For the Dressing

Greek Yogurt – A creamy base that adds protein and tang to your Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad.
Cilantro – Freshly chopped for that vibrant, herbaceous kick—don’t skimp!
Lime Juice – Freshly squeezed will impart zesty brightness, elevating the salad’s flavor.

For the Pasta Salad

375g Box of Pasta (like rotini, fusilli, or penne) – Supplies the heartiness; choose your favorite shape!
19 oz. Can of Chickpeas – Adds protein and fiber; remember to drain and rinse for a lighter salad.
12 oz. Can of Corn – Brings sweetness and texture; make sure it’s well-drained.
1 Medium Cucumber – Offers fresh crunch, chopped for added hydration and flavor.
1 Small Red Onion – Diced for a touch of sharpness that balances the creamy dressing.
1/2 Cup Feta Cheese (or Cotija) – Adds a savory, creamy element—feel free to skip it for a vegan option.

For Garnish

Cilantro Leaves (optional) – Enhances presentation and flavor.
Extra Lime Wedges (optional) – Serve alongside for those who love an extra citrus zing on their salad.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad

Step 1: Make the Dressing
Begin by preparing the creamy dressing for your Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad. In a blender or food processor, combine Greek yogurt, freshly chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and creamy, which should take about 30 seconds. Once ready, set the dressing aside to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta
While the dressing is resting, cook the pasta according to the package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Make sure you stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the pasta and run it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down, ensuring your salad remains refreshing.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with drained and rinsed chickpeas, well-drained corn, chopped cucumber, and diced red onion. Stir gently with a spoon until evenly distributed, allowing each ingredient to mingle and enhance the overall flavor profile of your Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad.

Step 4: Dress the Salad
Drizzle the creamy cilantro lime dressing over the pasta mixture. Using a large spoon, toss everything gently to ensure every piece of pasta and veggie is coated in the luscious dressing. The colors should brighten as they mix together, turning your salad into a vibrant dish perfect for any occasion.

Step 5: Add Feta Cheese
Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese evenly over the top of the salad. Gently toss again to incorporate the cheese without breaking it up too much. This touch adds a savory richness to the Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad, enhancing both its flavor and presentation.

Step 6: Chill and Serve
Once everything is nicely combined, cover the salad with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen and the salad to serve as a refreshing dish. Serve chilled, garnished with extra cilantro and lime wedges if desired for an extra zing.

How to Store and Freeze Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad

Fridge: Keep your Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This helps maintain its freshness and flavor.

Freezer: It’s best not to freeze this salad, as the creamy dressing can separate and change texture. Enjoy it fresh!

Reheating: If you’ve stored it for a few days and it seems dry, add a splash of olive oil or more dressing before serving to refresh the flavors.

Serving Tips: Serve chilled for the best taste. Before enjoying, give it a gentle stir to combine any separated ingredients.

Expert Tips for Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad

Prep Ahead: Prepare the salad a day in advance for the best flavor. The longer it sits, the more the ingredients meld together beautifully.
Pasta Choice: Opt for short pasta shapes like rotini or fusilli which hold the creamy dressing better than long pasta varieties.
Chickpea Care: Drain and rinse canned chickpeas thoroughly to reduce sodium and achieve a lightly fresh flavor that shines through in your salad.
Cooling Tip: After cooking your pasta, cool it under cold water to stop the cooking process, ensuring the salad remains refreshing.
Creaminess Booster: If the salad seems dry after storage, drizzle in a bit of olive oil or extra dressing to revive that delightful creaminess.
Garnish Galore: Sprinkle extra cilantro and lime wedges before serving to enhance the visual appeal and provide an additional burst of flavor.

Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad Variations

Feel free to mix things up with this cilantro lime pasta salad and unleash your culinary creativity!

Quinoa Swap: Replace short pasta with quinoa for a gluten-free option that’s just as satisfying. Quinoa brings a delightful nutty flavor and extra protein!
Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute feta with ripe avocado to achieve creaminess without dairy. It’s a delicious twist that adds healthy fats, making your salad extra luscious.
Colorful Veggies: Toss in diced bell peppers or juicy cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and sweetness. These additions will enhance both the taste and visual appeal.
Heat It Up: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Perfect for those who enjoy a little heat mingling with that refreshing lime zest!
Herb Infusion: Try adding a handful of chopped parsley or mint for a fresh flavor boost. It brightens the salad and provides a lovely herbaceous note.
Nutty Crunch: Mix in toasted nuts or seeds, such as pine nuts or sunflower seeds, for added crunch and a delightful contrast to the creamy dressing.
Protein Power: Incorporate grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier dish perfect for dinner. This added protein makes it a filling meal on its own!
Mediterranean Twist: Top with olives and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair. These flavors work wonderfully with the creamy cilantro lime dressing, transporting your taste buds to sunnier shores!

If you’re looking for more deliciously fresh meal ideas, you might also enjoy the Cajun Chicken Pasta or the light and tasty Salmon Spinach Pasta.

Make Ahead Options

These Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad components are perfect for meal prep, saving you time during busy weeks! You can prepare the salad mix (pasta, chickpeas, corn, cucumber, and red onion) up to 3 days in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep everything fresh and crisp. For the creaminess and zesty flavor, refrigerate the dressing separately for up to 24 hours but reserve a bit to drizzle just before serving to maintain that luscious texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, toss together the salad and dressing, sprinkle with feta, and serve chilled for a delightful dish that’s just as tasty as when it was freshly made!

What to Serve with Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad

This vibrant dish is the perfect base for a delightful summer meal filled with fresh flavors and textures.

Grilled Chicken: The smoky char of grilled chicken pairs beautifully, adding heartiness and protein to your meal. This combination is perfect for a backyard barbecue, inviting guests to savor the season.
Black Bean Tacos: Serve alongside spicy black bean tacos for a lively pop of flavor. The seasoned beans complement the zesty notes in the pasta salad.
Avocado Toast: A slice of creamy avocado toast topped with lime zest enhances the meal’s fresh vibe. It’s a delightful synergy of creaminess and crunch that leaves you wanting more.
Roasted Vegetables: Tossed in olive oil and herbs, roasted vegetables introduce a savory touch. Their caramelized sweetness beautifully balances the refreshing salad.
Sparkling Lemonade: Bright and effervescent, sparkling lemonade is a refreshing drink that elevates the dining experience, making every bite of the salad feel like a celebration.
Berry Parfait: For dessert, a berry parfait with yogurt and granola is a fruity, light option. Its natural sweetness contrasts nicely with the pasta salad, ensuring a delightful end to your meal.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet, grilled corn on the cob is a summer favorite. It adds a fun, interactive element to your meal, inviting everyone to dig in and enjoy.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal favorites adds a colorful touch. The variety of textures and flavors will keep your palate entertained and satisfied.

Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right pasta for this salad?
The best pasta for Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad is short shapes like rotini, fusilli, or penne. These shapes hold onto the creamy dressing far better than long noodle types. Make sure to cook it al dente, which usually takes around 8-10 minutes.

How should I store leftovers of this salad?
Keep your Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Be sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out. If you find that it seems dry after a few days, drizzle a bit of olive oil or some more dressing before serving to bring back that creamy texture.

Can I freeze Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad?
I recommend not freezing this salad. The creamy dressing made from Greek yogurt doesn’t freeze well—it can separate and end up with an unappealing texture when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh, so make only as much as you can eat within a few days.

What should I do if the salad looks dry after storage?
If your salad appears dry after being stored, simply stir in a drizzle of olive oil or a splash of extra dressing before serving. This will help rehydrate the salad and restore that delightful creaminess you loved when it was freshly made.

Are there any dietary considerations for this salad?
Absolutely! This recipe is vegetarian, but if you’re watching your lactose intake, you can easily swap out feta cheese for avocado to make it dairy-free. Also, just ensure to rinse the canned chickpeas and corn to lower sodium for a healthier option. If serving to guests, always check for any food allergies, especially with the dressing ingredients.

How ripe should the vegetables be for this salad?
For the best flavor and texture, use crisp and fresh vegetables! The cucumber should be firm with no dark spots, and the red onion should be vibrant, not wilted. Freshly picked cilantro is ideal as well; look for bright green leaves without wilting.