What Makes This Avocado Pasta Salad So Special?

• Loaded with fresh veggies: Every bite is a burst of freshness from the cucumber, tomatoes, and cilantro.
• Creamy avocado goodness: The avocados give the salad its luscious texture without needing heavy mayo.
• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.
• Customizable: Perfect as is, or tweak it to suit your taste.
• Great for meal prep: This salad stays fresh for hours, making it ideal for parties or lunchboxes.

Ingredients for Avocado Pasta Salad

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this vibrant dish:

For the Salad

• 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
• 2 ripe avocados, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Optional Dressing

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lime juice (or lemon juice)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Mixing bowls
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Whisk for mixing the dressing

Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

Want to take this salad to the next level or make adjustments? Here are some ideas:

• Add protein: Toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or black beans for a more filling dish.
• Switch the pasta: Use rotini, penne, or even a gluten-free option if needed.
• Add cheese: Crumbled feta or cotija cheese pairs beautifully with the flavors.
• Use different herbs: Basil, parsley, or dill can replace cilantro if you’re not a fan.
• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes.

How to Make Avocado Pasta Salad

Ready to whip up this delicious salad? Let’s get started!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, rinse with cold water, and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Veggies

While the pasta cools, dice the avocados, halve the cherry tomatoes, finely chop the red onion, and dice the cucumber. Drain the corn if using canned, or cook it briefly if using frozen.

Step 3: Make the Dressing (Optional)

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, avocados, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, corn, and fresh cilantro. If using the dressing, drizzle it over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Step 5: Serve

Serve immediately as a side dish or a light main course. For extra flavor, garnish with a sprinkle of lime zest or a few additional cilantro leaves.

What to Serve with Avocado Pasta Salad

This salad is delicious on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes:

• Grilled protein: Serve alongside grilled chicken, salmon, or steak.
• Fresh bread: A crusty baguette or garlic bread is perfect for scooping up every last bite.
• Tacos: Pair it with fish tacos or carne asada for a fun, flavorful meal.

Tips for the Best Avocado Pasta Salad

• Use ripe avocados: Look for avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure but aren’t mushy.
• Don’t skip the rinse: Rinsing the pasta with cold water stops the cooking process and keeps the salad fresh.
• Make just before serving: For the freshest taste, assemble the salad close to serving time, as avocado can brown over time.
• Keep dressing separate: If making ahead, store the dressing separately and toss it in right before serving to keep the veggies crisp.

How to Store Avocado Pasta Salad

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 day. To minimize browning, squeeze a little lime juice over the avocado before mixing.
• Not freezer-friendly: Due to the fresh veggies and avocado, freezing is not recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep most of the ingredients (pasta, veggies, dressing) ahead of time and store them separately. Combine everything and dice the avocado just before serving.

What’s the best pasta for this salad?

Bowtie pasta works wonderfully, but rotini, penne, or any short pasta shape that holds the dressing well will work.

Can I skip the dressing?

Absolutely! The avocado itself adds plenty of creaminess, but the optional dressing enhances the flavor if you want a zesty kick.

Why You’ll Love This Salad

This Avocado Pasta Salad is everything you want in a summer dish: fresh, creamy, vibrant, and oh-so-simple to make. It’s the perfect addition to barbecues, potlucks, or even a quick lunch at home.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below or share your photos on Pinterest—don’t forget to tag me so I can see your creations!

More Fresh Recipes to Try:

• Cucumber Tomato Salad
• Southwest Quinoa Salad
• Creamy Avocado Dressing

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 250
• Carbs: 35g
• Fat: 12g
• Protein: 5g

Enjoy every refreshing bite!