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Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad

Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad

This Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad is loaded with pasta, black beans, corn, avocado, and a fresh cilantro lime dressing.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Calories: 340
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz rotini pasta
  • 1 cup black beans drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 avocado diced
  • 1/2 red bell pepper diced
  • 1/4 red onion finely diced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped
  • For the Cilantro Lime Dressing
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  2. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water until completely cooled to stop the cooking process.
  3. Transfer the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl.
  4. Add the black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, avocado, bell pepper, and red onion to the bowl with the pasta.
  5. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey, garlic, cilantro, cumin, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
  6. Pour the cilantro lime dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
  7. Sprinkle extra cilantro over the salad and mix lightly.
  8. Cover and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend together.
  9. Toss again before serving and garnish with fresh lime wedges if desired.

Notes

  • Cook the pasta just until al dente so it stays firm after chilling.
  • Rinse pasta with cold water to cool it quickly and prevent sticking.
  • Add avocado shortly before serving for the freshest texture.
  • Fresh lime juice gives the dressing the best bright flavor.
  • Taste the dressing before adding and adjust salt or lime as needed.
  • Use fresh cilantro for the most vibrant flavor.
  • Chill the salad before serving for the best taste and texture.