Creamy Avocado Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes, Corn, and Fresh Herbs (Easy Healthy Summer Side Dish)

Prep Time: 15 minutes   |   Cook Time: 10 minutes   |   Total Time: 25 minutes   |   Servings: 4–6

Introduction

Avocado pasta salad is a creamy, refreshing dish that’s perfect for warm weather meals and easy entertaining. This healthy summer side combines tender pasta with buttery avocado, juicy cherry tomatoes, sweet corn, and fresh herbs for a colorful and flavorful bowl. The avocado creates a naturally creamy texture that coats the pasta beautifully without feeling heavy. Every bite is packed with freshness, making it ideal for picnics, barbecues, meal prep, or quick lunches. For the best flavor and texture, use ripe avocados and chill the salad briefly before serving.

Ingredients

• 12 oz rotini or bowtie pasta (340 g)
• 2 ripe avocados, diced (300 g)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (150 g)
• 1 cup corn kernels (150 g)
• 1/4 red onion, finely chopped (40 g)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (10 g)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
• 2 tablespoons lime or lemon juice (30 ml)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (3 g)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (1 g)
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise (optional for extra creaminess) (60 ml)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water until completely cooled.
2. Prepare the vegetables: Dice avocados, halve cherry tomatoes, finely chop red onion, and prepare the corn and herbs.
3. Make the dressing: In a large bowl whisk together olive oil, lime or lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and Greek yogurt or mayonnaise if using.
4. Combine the salad: Add cooled pasta, avocado, tomatoes, corn, red onion, and herbs to the bowl.
5. Toss gently: Mix carefully until everything is evenly coated while keeping the avocado pieces mostly intact.
6. Adjust seasoning: Taste and add more salt, pepper, or citrus juice if needed.
7. Chill: Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes for best flavor.
8. Serve: Serve chilled and garnish with extra herbs if desired.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make avocado pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, but add the avocado closer to serving time for the freshest color and texture.

Q2: How do I keep avocado from browning?
Use plenty of lime or lemon juice and store the salad tightly covered.

Q3: Can I add protein to this salad?
Absolutely. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are great additions.

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