Fresh Healthy Cilantro Lime Pasta

This Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad is my absolute favorite for summer gatherings and easy make-ahead lunches. Creamy Greek yogurt meets vibrant cilantro and zesty lime with fresh veggies and protein-packed chickpeas. Every bite bursts with freshness and the kind of craveable tang that keeps guests going back for seconds.

I first mixed up a version of this salad for a backyard barbecue with friends and everyone raved—now it is my go-to when I want to impress with something secretly healthy.

Ingredients

• Short pasta like rotini fusilli or penne: Look for whole wheat or fiber-rich varieties for extra nourishment and cook until just al dente so it holds its bite
• Chickpeas drained and rinsed: These add hearty texture and protein Choose firm glossy chickpeas for best results
• Corn kernels drained and rinsed: For a pop of sweetness and color Fresh cut corn works too if you have it
• Cucumber chopped: crunchy and hydrating Pick firm cucumbers and peel if skins are tough
• Red onion diced: Adds flavor bite and a pop of color Use a mild fresh onion or soak diced onion in water to mellow its sharpness
• Feta or cojita cheese crumbled: Creamy tangy flavor Crumble just before adding for freshest texture
• Greek yogurt avocado cilantro lime and seasonings for the dressing: Choose creamy ripe avocados and fresh cilantro for best results Double the cilantro and skip parsley as noted in the dressing recipe
• Cilantro leaves for garnish: Adds big herby aroma and a lush finish
• Lime juice extra: to squeeze before serving gives the salad an energizing lift

Step-by-Step Instructions

Blitz the Dressing:

Blend Greek yogurt avocado cilantro lime juice and seasonings in a high-speed blender or food processor until smooth Thick and creamy is what you are after Set aside

Prep the Pasta and Veggies:

Cook your pasta according to package directions in well-salted water Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking Chop cucumber finely dice onion and drain chickpeas and corn Set everything aside

Mix the Main Salad:

Combine cooked pasta chickpeas corn cucumber and red onion in a big mixing bowl Mix gently with clean hands or a spatula so nothing breaks apart

Dress and Toss Thoroughly:

Drizzle in the creamy cilantro lime dressing Pour on enough to coat then gently toss and fold until every noodle and veggie is glossy and green

Finish with Cheese and Freshness:

Add crumbled feta or cojita cheese over the top and lightly toss to incorporate Garnish with chopped cilantro leaves and a squeeze of lime

Lime and cilantro make this salad bursting with brightness but my favorite component has always been the creamy dressing It is secretly nourishing and rivals any restaurant Caesar or ranch I remember bringing this to my cousin’s birthday and everyone wanted a copy of the recipe

Storage Tips

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator It tastes just as good for up to three days If the salad seems dry after a day add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or a splash of lime juice to revive creaminess and flavor

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap in black beans for chickpeas if that is what you have on hand Or use cooked edamame for another protein option Need it dairy free Use coconut yogurt and swap in vegan cheese or leave out cheese altogether and add more avocado

Serving Suggestions

This salad is a fresh standalone lunch but it is also a cheerful side with grilled chicken skewers roasted fish or veggie burgers Bring it to barbecues lay it out at a brunch buffet or enjoy as a quick meal prep dinner after a busy workday

Cultural and Historical Context

Pasta salads like this trace their roots to Mediterranean tables where bright dressings and protein-rich beans are summer staples The zesty cilantro lime twist comes from beloved Latin American flavor profiles making every forkful a fusion of sunny traditions

FAQs about Recipes

→ Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, short pasta shapes like rotini, fusilli, or penne work best, but feel free to use your favorite kind.

→ How long does it keep fresh?

Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it stays fresh for up to 3 days. Stir before serving.

→ Can I make the dressing ahead?

Absolutely! Prepare the dressing up to two days in advance and store it sealed in the refrigerator.

→ Is it suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this pasta is perfect for meal prep and packs well for lunch or as a grab-and-go side.

→ What proteins are included?

Chickpeas add plant-based protein, and Greek yogurt in the dressing provides extra creaminess and nutrition.

→ Can I leave out the cheese?

Certainly! The cheese adds flavor, but it can be omitted or replaced with a dairy-free option if preferred.