Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
This Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad is zesty, herby, and bursting with feel-good flavors. It’s your low-effort, high-vibe summer bowl of joy — made with simple ingredients like pasta, fresh cilantro, lime juice, feta, and juicy tomatoes. Ready in minutes, perfect for picnics, BBQs, or chaotic Tuesday nights when you just need something refreshing.
Equipment
- Large pot for pasta
- Strainer
- Cutting board + sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork for dressing
- Serving spoon the cute one if you’re feeling extra
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta – I used rotini because those lil swirls hold onto all the sauce. But honestly? Anything works.
- 1 cup fresh cilantro chopped – THE star. And yes, it has to be fresh, babe.
- Juice of 2 limes – freshly squeezed because bottled is NOT invited to this party.
- 1/4 cup olive oil – the fancy one if you’re feeling rich or the usual stuff if not.
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese – adds that creamy salty tang. Goat cheese is a fun sub too!
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved – for that juicy pop and color.
- 1/4 red onion finely chopped – optional but trust me… she adds drama in the best way.
- Salt + pepper to taste – duh.
Instructions
Boil Like a Boss
- Bring that salted water to a rolling boil and toss in your pasta. You want it al dente, not mushy (unless you’re into that, no judgment). Don’t forget to stir — I literally once forgot and ended up with a pasta clump situation. We move.
Chop Like You’re on a Cooking Show
- While the pasta’s cooking, slice those tomatoes, crumble the feta, and finely chop your cilantro like it owes you money. Don’t stress if your cuts aren’t perfect — this ain’t Top Chef.
Whip the Zestiest Dressing Ever
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, a dash of salt, pepper, and that lil pinch of sugar if needed. Taste it, dance a little, and adjust if it needs more sass.
Mix It All Like You Mean It
- Drain your pasta and let it cool a smidge (unless you're impatient like me). Toss everything in a big bowl — pasta, chopped goodies, crumbled feta, and that dreamy dressing. Mix until every bite looks like a flavor bomb.
Notes
- Pasta choice: Rotini is perfect for catching the dressing, but penne, bowties, or even orzo work beautifully.
- Fresh vs bottled lime juice: Please babe… always fresh. Bottled doesn’t sparkle.
- No feta? Use goat cheese or even shredded mozzarella.
- Make it vegan: Skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative — still amazing.
- Add-ins welcome: Think avocado, grilled corn, chopped mango, black beans, or spicy jalapeño for extra flair.
- Meal prep tip: Keeps for up to 3 days in the fridge — just don’t add avocado until serving.