This Avocado Pasta Salad is light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor! Featuring creamy avocados, juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and a tangy homemade dressing, this dish is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a quick lunch.
With just a handful of fresh ingredients, this healthy, vegetarian salad is easy to make and incredibly satisfying!
💚 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Creamy & Refreshing – Avocado + citrusy dressing = perfection!
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes.
✔ Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with fiber, healthy fats, and vitamins.
✔ Versatile – Serve as a side dish or a light meal.
📌 Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
🍝 For the Pasta Salad:
- 8 ounces farfalle (bowtie) pasta
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup cucumber, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- ¼ cup feta cheese (optional, for a tangy twist)
🥗 For the Dressing:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (optional, for extra tang)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
💡 Optional Additions:
✔ Add grilled chicken or shrimp for protein.
✔ Swap cilantro for basil or parsley if preferred.
✔ Toss in toasted pine nuts or walnuts for extra crunch.
🍽 Step-by-Step Instructions
🔥 Step 1: Cook the Pasta
1️⃣ Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2️⃣ Add the bowtie pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes (or according to package instructions) until al dente.
3️⃣ Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
💡 Want more flavor? Cook the pasta in vegetable broth instead of water!
🥑 Step 2: Make the Dressing
1️⃣ In a small bowl, whisk together:
- Olive oil
- Lemon/lime juice
- Red wine vinegar (if using)
- Garlic powder, salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if using)
2️⃣ Set aside.
💡 For a creamier dressing, blend in half an avocado!
🥗 Step 3: Assemble the Salad
1️⃣ In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Cooked & cooled pasta
- Diced avocados
- Cherry tomatoes
- Chopped red onion & cucumber
- Chopped cilantro
2️⃣ Drizzle with the prepared dressing.
3️⃣ Gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
💡 Want bolder flavor? Let the salad sit for 15-30 minutes before serving to absorb the flavors!
🧀 Step 4: Add Feta & Serve
1️⃣ Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese, if using.
2️⃣ Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or lime juice as needed.
3️⃣ Serve immediately or chill for up to 1 hour for enhanced flavors.
💡 Serving Tip: Garnish with extra cilantro or a drizzle of olive oil!
🕰️ Recipe Timing & Nutrition
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: ~20 minutes
- Calories: ~320 kcal per serving
- Servings: 4-6
👩🍳 Pro Tips & Variations
✔ Make It Vegan – Omit feta cheese or use vegan feta.
✔ Extra Crunch? – Toss in toasted nuts or crispy chickpeas.
✔ Low-Carb Version – Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
✔ Storage Tip: Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days (avocado may darken).
❓ FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare everything except the avocado, then mix in fresh avocado right before serving to prevent browning.
What’s the best way to keep avocados from browning?
Toss them with extra lime or lemon juice before adding them to the salad.
Can I use a different pasta?
Yes! Rotini, penne, or fusilli work great in this salad.