This super creamy cilantro lime pasta salad is a vibrant, fresh take on a classic potluck favorite. A blend of orzo and rotini holds onto a tangy Greek yogurt–lime dressing in every bite, studded with sweet corn, black beans, and juicy cherry tomatoes. The bright cilantro and zesty lime interplay creates a bold, savory-herb burst that elevates this salad to a true crowd-pleaser.
Best served chilled, this dish is ideal for hot-weather gatherings, picnics, or easy weeknight dinners. It’s vegetarian-friendly, easy to double for larger groups, and perfect for make-ahead setups. Plus, it adapts effortlessly swap in dairy-free yogurt or add avocado for extra richness. Whether you’re hosting friends or grabbing forkfuls between meetings, this pasta salad brings flavor and freshness to the table every time.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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8 oz orzo pasta
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8 oz rotini or penne pasta
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1 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
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¼ cup mayonnaise
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½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
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2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
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1 teaspoon lime zest
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1 garlic clove, minced
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½ cup frozen corn, thawed
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½ cup black beans, rinsed & drained
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
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Cook both pastas until al dente, drain and rinse under cold water.
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In a bowl, whisk yogurt, mayo, cilantro, lime juice/zest, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
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Toss the cooled pasta with dressing until well coated. Fold in corn, beans, and tomatoes.
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Chill for 20 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
If you’re looking for a quick and vibrant meal that brings together fresh herbs, zesty citrus, and wholesome ingredients, then this Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad is your new go-to dish. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something light but satisfying, this recipe delivers a punch of flavor with minimal effort.
Combining the refreshing notes of cilantro and lime with creamy dressing and hearty pasta, it strikes the perfect balance between indulgent and nutritious. It’s ideal for vegetarians and can be adapted for a variety of dietary needs. What makes it especially great is its versatility: it’s just as perfect as a side dish at a summer gathering as it is the centerpiece of a weekday lunch.
Let’s dive into what makes this pasta salad such a standout.
Why Cilantro and Lime Are a Match Made in Flavor Heaven
Cilantro and lime are culinary soulmates, often paired in Latin American, Thai, and Mediterranean cuisines. Cilantro adds an herbaceous brightness, while lime contributes a citrusy tang that enhances all the other flavors in a dish.
In this salad, their pairing does more than just flavor enhancement it transforms a simple pasta dish into something extraordinary. The dressing, featuring lime zest and juice, gives the entire salad a zippy, refreshing taste, while chopped cilantro brings freshness and color. Together, they elevate the dish into a bright, crave-worthy salad that feels both luxurious and clean.
The Secret to a Creamy Yet Light Dressing
Unlike traditional pasta salads that rely heavily on mayonnaise, this recipe opts for a more balanced approach. By blending Greek yogurt with just a touch of mayo, the dressing stays creamy but light. The yogurt adds a tangy profile and protein boost, while the mayonnaise lends smoothness and body.
Garlic, lime zest, and lime juice are mixed into the dressing for a layered depth of flavor. It’s thick enough to coat the pasta well, but not so heavy that it feels cloying. This dressing can even be used as a dip, spread, or alternative slaw dressing if you’re feeling adventurous.
A Colorful, Wholesome Ingredient Lineup
What truly makes this dish stand out is its rich texture and colorful array of vegetables. The combination of sweet corn, black beans, and cherry tomatoes not only adds visual appeal but also layers of taste and nutrition.
The black beans add fiber and a soft bite, balancing the al dente pasta. Sweet corn offers juicy crunch, and the tomatoes give the salad acidity and a burst of freshness. These ingredients make every forkful dynamic and satisfying.
You also have the flexibility to add extras avocado chunks, shredded carrots, chopped red onion, or even jalapeños for a little heat. This salad can be made your own in endless ways.
Pasta Shape Matters (Yes, Really!)
While this recipe uniquely uses both orzo and rotini (or penne), the choice of pasta is more than just aesthetic. Orzo provides a delicate, rice-like texture that blends seamlessly with the creamy dressing and vegetables. Meanwhile, the rotini or penne offers structure and holds the dressing in its ridges.
This combination of pasta types allows for a contrast in texture that makes the dish feel more elevated. If you’re making it for a gathering or event, this detail won’t go unnoticed it’s one of those simple touches that makes a big impression.
Great for Meal Prep and Make-Ahead Meals
One of the unsung benefits of this cilantro lime pasta salad is how well it holds up in the fridge. Unlike leafy green salads that wilt within hours, this one improves as it sits. The flavors develop beautifully over time, especially once the dressing has a chance to meld with the pasta and vegetables.
It can last in the refrigerator for 3–4 days, making it perfect for meal prep. Portion it into containers for work lunches or keep it on hand for a ready-to-go dinner side. Serve it chilled or at room temperature it’s equally delicious either way.
A Perfect Addition to Any Summer Menu
Imagine a breezy picnic, a family barbecue, or a casual potluck this dish fits seamlessly into all of them. Because it’s served cold and doesn’t require reheating, it’s ideal for summer entertaining. It pairs beautifully with grilled proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu and complements any number of side dishes like watermelon salad, grilled corn, or crusty bread.
It also offers a vegetarian option that doesn’t feel like a compromise. With protein from Greek yogurt and black beans, it’s hearty enough to be a full meal on its own.
Easily Customizable for Special Diets
This salad is naturally vegetarian, but can be made vegan by simply swapping out the Greek yogurt and mayo for plant-based alternatives. Dairy-free yogurt and eggless mayo are easy to find and maintain the creamy texture of the original.
If you’re gluten-free, just substitute the pasta for a gluten-free version. And if you’re cutting carbs, you could even try a chickpea pasta or spiralized veggie alternative like zucchini noodles.
This adaptability ensures that no one is left out when it comes to enjoying the fresh, bold flavors of this dish.
Tips for Serving and Garnishing
To make this salad truly shine on the table, presentation matters. Serve it in a wide, shallow bowl to showcase the colorful ingredients. Garnish with extra chopped cilantro, a sprinkle of lime zest, and perhaps a few halved cherry tomatoes or corn kernels on top for visual appeal.
Want to impress guests? Add some grilled lime slices around the dish for a rustic yet gourmet touch. You can even offer crushed tortilla chips on the side for a crunchy topping.
Serve chilled for a refreshing bite, or allow it to sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
Conclusion: A Refreshing Pasta Salad That Checks Every Box
The Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad is more than just a dish it’s a celebration of vibrant ingredients, clever shortcuts, and satisfying textures. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, sunny weekend gatherings, or anytime you want a meal that’s both nourishing and exciting.
From the tangy lime to the aromatic cilantro, every element of this salad is thoughtfully designed to delight your senses. The creamy dressing brings it all together, and the combination of pasta and vegetables ensures that it’s filling, colorful, and irresistibly tasty.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just getting started, this pasta salad is a breeze to make and even easier to enjoy. Bookmark it, share it, and make it your own it’s destined to become a staple in your seasonal rotation.