Description
A vibrant and refreshing pasta salad bursting with fresh cilantro, zesty lime, and a creamy, lighter dressing made with Greek yogurt. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound pasta (rotini, fusilli, or penne work well)
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or 2% for best texture)
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (from about 2–3 limes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (stems and leaves)
- 1/2 cup diced red onion (soaked in cold water for 10 minutes to reduce sharpness, then drained)
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen and thawed, or canned and drained)
- 1 cup diced bell pepper (any color, red or yellow for sweetness)
- 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped jalapeño for a touch of heat
- Optional: 1/4 avocado, diced (add just before serving for freshness)
Instructions
- 1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and rinse with cold water; set aside to drain completely.
- 2. Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, fresh lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings.
- 3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta, chopped cilantro, diced red onion, corn, diced bell pepper, and black beans (and jalapeño, if using). Toss gently.
- 4. Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- 5. Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Gently fold in diced avocado just before serving, if using.
Notes
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Serve cold.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Salad
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: Approx. 250-300 (varies with ingredients)
- Sugar: Approx. 5-8g
- Sodium: Approx. 300-400mg
- Fat: Approx. 8-12g
- Carbohydrates: Approx. 40-45g
- Fiber: Approx. 5-7g
- Protein: Approx. 8-10g