FREE DINNER EBOOK! Get your copy!

Creamy Cilantro Lime Pasta Flavorful Weeknight Meal

by on September 14, 2025

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Looking for a quick and tasty dinner? Try my Creamy Cilantro Lime Pasta! This vibrant dish bursts with zesty lime and fresh cilantro flavors. It’s perfect for busy weeknights but feels special enough for a gathering. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll whip up a meal that everyone will love. Ready to elevate your dinner routine? Let’s dive into the delicious details of this creamy delight!

- 8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti - 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped - 1/2 cup sour cream - 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened - 1/2 cup lime juice (about 3 limes) - 1 garlic clove, minced - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - Zest of 1 lime - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - Cherry tomatoes, halved (for garnish) For this creamy cilantro lime pasta, you will need some key ingredients. Start with 8 ounces of fettuccine or spaghetti. This will be your pasta base. Next, use 1 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped finely. The cilantro gives a bright flavor. You will also need 1/2 cup of sour cream and 1/4 cup of softened cream cheese. These create the creamy sauce that makes this dish special. Don’t forget the lime juice! You will need 1/2 cup, which comes from about 3 limes. The juice adds a zesty kick. A minced garlic clove and 1 tablespoon of olive oil are also important. They boost the flavor of the sauce. Lastly, keep salt and pepper handy for seasoning. If you want to elevate your dish, consider adding the zest of 1 lime. This will enhance the lime flavor. For a cheesy touch, add 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. For a pop of color, use cherry tomatoes, halved, as a garnish. {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. The salt adds flavor to the pasta. 2. Add 8 ounces of fettuccine or spaghetti. Cook until it's al dente. This means it should be firm when you bite it. 3. Drain the pasta in a colander. Don’t forget to reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water. This water helps with the sauce later. 1. In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cream cheese, lime juice, minced garlic, lime zest, and olive oil. 2. Whisk all the ingredients together until you have a smooth and creamy sauce. This is where the magic happens! 1. In the same pot you used for the pasta, mix the drained pasta with the creamy sauce. 2. Stir well so that the pasta gets fully coated. If the sauce feels too thick, slowly add some of the reserved pasta water. This helps reach your desired creaminess. 3. Finally, fold in the fresh cilantro. This adds a bright, fresh flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce. To get the best creamy texture in your pasta, mix the sauce well. I like to use a whisk for this. It helps blend the sour cream, cream cheese, lime juice, and garlic. This ensures every bite is rich and smooth. When you combine the pasta with the sauce, add some reserved pasta water bit by bit. This helps the sauce cling to the pasta. If the sauce feels thick, a little pasta water makes it just right. Balancing lime and cilantro is key. The lime brings a bright taste, while cilantro offers a fresh note. To get this right, start with less lime juice. You can always add more to suit your taste. I also suggest tasting as you go. A pinch of salt can bring out the flavors. If you like spice, a dash of pepper can add warmth without overpowering the dish. For a beautiful plate, twirl the pasta into a nest shape. This looks great and showcases your hard work. You can also sprinkle grated Parmesan on top for extra flavor. For a colorful touch, add halved cherry tomatoes as a garnish. If you want to make it a full meal, serve the pasta with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables. This adds protein and makes the meal more filling. Pro Tips Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh cilantro and limes to enhance the flavor of your dish. Fresh ingredients can make a significant difference in taste. Reserve Pasta Water: Don’t forget to save some pasta water before draining. It’s a great way to adjust the sauce consistency and helps it adhere better to the pasta. Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute half of the sour cream with Greek yogurt. It adds a tangy flavor while keeping it creamy. Add a Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans to the pasta. They pair well with the creamy cilantro lime sauce. {{image_2}} You can switch up the pasta you use for this dish. Fettuccine and spaghetti are great, but why not try penne or linguine? These shapes hold sauce well, making each bite full of flavor. If you need gluten-free options, many brands offer rice or chickpea pasta. These alternatives taste great and work well with the creamy cilantro lime sauce. Want to spice things up? You can add cumin for warmth or jalapeño for heat. Both will give your pasta a fun twist. You can also toss in vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. These add color, crunch, and nutrients to your dish. Just sauté the veggies lightly before mixing them in. They will brighten your pasta and make it even more tasty. If you're looking for vegan options, cashew cream or coconut yogurt works wonders. To make cashew cream, soak raw cashews and blend them until smooth. This creates a rich base for your sauce. Coconut yogurt is another great choice; it adds creaminess and a hint of coconut flavor. Both options keep your pasta creamy without dairy, allowing everyone to enjoy it. To keep your creamy cilantro lime pasta fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps prevent any moisture loss. Make sure to let the pasta cool to room temperature before sealing. It lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. After that, the flavors may fade, and the texture may change. For reheating, use a stovetop or microwave to warm your pasta. If using the stovetop, add a splash of water or olive oil. This will help restore the creaminess. Heat on low to avoid burning. If using a microwave, cover the dish with a damp paper towel. This keeps moisture in. Aim for a temperature of 165°F to ensure it's hot throughout. Yes, you can freeze creamy pasta, but the texture may change when thawed. To freeze, place the pasta in a freezer-safe container. Leave some space for expansion. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, follow the stovetop method, adding a little liquid as needed. You can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. It has a similar tang and creaminess. If you want a dairy-free option, try coconut yogurt. It will add a hint of sweetness. You can also use cashew cream for a nutty flavor. Each option works well in the creamy cilantro lime pasta. Yes, you can prepare many parts of this dish ahead of time. Cook the pasta and let it cool. Store it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. You can also mix the creamy sauce and keep it in the fridge. Just combine them before serving. This saves time on busy nights. Absolutely! Creamy cilantro lime pasta stores well. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to eat, reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or extra lime juice to keep it creamy. This dish tastes great even on the second day! This blog post covered how to make a creamy pasta dish with fresh flavors. We learned about the main and optional ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and practical tips. Remember to adjust the sauce's texture with reserved pasta water for creaminess. Explore variations to suit your taste, whether by changing pasta types or adding spices. Enjoy this dish as a tasty meal or during meal prep. You now have the knowledge to impress with this flavorful recipe.

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Fresh and Flavorful: This pasta dish is bursting with the vibrant flavors of cilantro and lime, making it a refreshing option for any meal.
  2. Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
  3. Versatile Ingredients: With simple ingredients like sour cream and cream cheese, you can easily adjust the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs.
  4. Beautiful Presentation: The addition of cherry tomatoes not only enhances the flavor but also adds a lovely pop of color to your plate, making it visually appealing.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti

– 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

– 1/2 cup sour cream

– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened

Additional Ingredients

– 1/2 cup lime juice (about 3 limes)

– 1 garlic clove, minced

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients

– Zest of 1 lime

– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– Cherry tomatoes, halved (for garnish)

For this creamy cilantro lime pasta, you will need some key ingredients. Start with 8 ounces of fettuccine or spaghetti. This will be your pasta base. Next, use 1 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped finely. The cilantro gives a bright flavor.

You will also need 1/2 cup of sour cream and 1/4 cup of softened cream cheese. These create the creamy sauce that makes this dish special.

Don’t forget the lime juice! You will need 1/2 cup, which comes from about 3 limes. The juice adds a zesty kick. A minced garlic clove and 1 tablespoon of olive oil are also important. They boost the flavor of the sauce. Lastly, keep salt and pepper handy for seasoning.

If you want to elevate your dish, consider adding the zest of 1 lime. This will enhance the lime flavor. For a cheesy touch, add 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. For a pop of color, use cherry tomatoes, halved, as a garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

1. Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. The salt adds flavor to the pasta.

2. Add 8 ounces of fettuccine or spaghetti. Cook until it’s al dente. This means it should be firm when you bite it.

3. Drain the pasta in a colander. Don’t forget to reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water. This water helps with the sauce later.

Mixing the Creamy Sauce

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cream cheese, lime juice, minced garlic, lime zest, and olive oil.

2. Whisk all the ingredients together until you have a smooth and creamy sauce. This is where the magic happens!

Combining Ingredients

1. In the same pot you used for the pasta, mix the drained pasta with the creamy sauce.

2. Stir well so that the pasta gets fully coated. If the sauce feels too thick, slowly add some of the reserved pasta water. This helps reach your desired creaminess.

3. Finally, fold in the fresh cilantro. This adds a bright, fresh flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.

Tips & Tricks

Achieving Creaminess

To get the best creamy texture in your pasta, mix the sauce well. I like to use a whisk for this. It helps blend the sour cream, cream cheese, lime juice, and garlic. This ensures every bite is rich and smooth. When you combine the pasta with the sauce, add some reserved pasta water bit by bit. This helps the sauce cling to the pasta. If the sauce feels thick, a little pasta water makes it just right.

Flavor Enhancements

Balancing lime and cilantro is key. The lime brings a bright taste, while cilantro offers a fresh note. To get this right, start with less lime juice. You can always add more to suit your taste. I also suggest tasting as you go. A pinch of salt can bring out the flavors. If you like spice, a dash of pepper can add warmth without overpowering the dish.

Serving Suggestions

For a beautiful plate, twirl the pasta into a nest shape. This looks great and showcases your hard work. You can also sprinkle grated Parmesan on top for extra flavor. For a colorful touch, add halved cherry tomatoes as a garnish. If you want to make it a full meal, serve the pasta with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables. This adds protein and makes the meal more filling.

Pro Tips

  1. Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh cilantro and limes to enhance the flavor of your dish. Fresh ingredients can make a significant difference in taste.
  2. Reserve Pasta Water: Don’t forget to save some pasta water before draining. It’s a great way to adjust the sauce consistency and helps it adhere better to the pasta.
  3. Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute half of the sour cream with Greek yogurt. It adds a tangy flavor while keeping it creamy.
  4. Add a Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans to the pasta. They pair well with the creamy cilantro lime sauce.

Variations

Different Pasta Choices

You can switch up the pasta you use for this dish. Fettuccine and spaghetti are great, but why not try penne or linguine? These shapes hold sauce well, making each bite full of flavor. If you need gluten-free options, many brands offer rice or chickpea pasta. These alternatives taste great and work well with the creamy cilantro lime sauce.

Alternative Flavor Additions

Want to spice things up? You can add cumin for warmth or jalapeño for heat. Both will give your pasta a fun twist. You can also toss in vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. These add color, crunch, and nutrients to your dish. Just sauté the veggies lightly before mixing them in. They will brighten your pasta and make it even more tasty.

Creamy Alternatives

If you’re looking for vegan options, cashew cream or coconut yogurt works wonders. To make cashew cream, soak raw cashews and blend them until smooth. This creates a rich base for your sauce. Coconut yogurt is another great choice; it adds creaminess and a hint of coconut flavor. Both options keep your pasta creamy without dairy, allowing everyone to enjoy it.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your creamy cilantro lime pasta fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps prevent any moisture loss. Make sure to let the pasta cool to room temperature before sealing. It lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. After that, the flavors may fade, and the texture may change.

Reheating Tips

For reheating, use a stovetop or microwave to warm your pasta. If using the stovetop, add a splash of water or olive oil. This will help restore the creaminess. Heat on low to avoid burning. If using a microwave, cover the dish with a damp paper towel. This keeps moisture in. Aim for a temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s hot throughout.

Freezing Recommendations

Yes, you can freeze creamy pasta, but the texture may change when thawed. To freeze, place the pasta in a freezer-safe container. Leave some space for expansion. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, follow the stovetop method, adding a little liquid as needed.

FAQs

What can I substitute for sour cream?

You can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. It has a similar tang and creaminess. If you want a dairy-free option, try coconut yogurt. It will add a hint of sweetness. You can also use cashew cream for a nutty flavor. Each option works well in the creamy cilantro lime pasta.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare many parts of this dish ahead of time. Cook the pasta and let it cool. Store it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. You can also mix the creamy sauce and keep it in the fridge. Just combine them before serving. This saves time on busy nights.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Creamy cilantro lime pasta stores well. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or extra lime juice to keep it creamy. This dish tastes great even on the second day!

This blog post covered how to make a creamy pasta dish with fresh flavors. We learned about the main and optional ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and practical tips. Remember to adjust the sauce’s texture with reserved pasta water for creaminess. Explore variations to suit your taste, whether by changing pasta types or adding spices.

Enjoy this dish as a tasty meal or during meal prep. You now have the knowledge to impress with this flavorful recip

- 8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti - 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped - 1/2 cup sour cream - 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened - 1/2 cup lime juice (about 3 limes) - 1 garlic clove, minced - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - Zest of 1 lime - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - Cherry tomatoes, halved (for garnish) For this creamy cilantro lime pasta, you will need some key ingredients. Start with 8 ounces of fettuccine or spaghetti. This will be your pasta base. Next, use 1 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped finely. The cilantro gives a bright flavor. You will also need 1/2 cup of sour cream and 1/4 cup of softened cream cheese. These create the creamy sauce that makes this dish special. Don’t forget the lime juice! You will need 1/2 cup, which comes from about 3 limes. The juice adds a zesty kick. A minced garlic clove and 1 tablespoon of olive oil are also important. They boost the flavor of the sauce. Lastly, keep salt and pepper handy for seasoning. If you want to elevate your dish, consider adding the zest of 1 lime. This will enhance the lime flavor. For a cheesy touch, add 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. For a pop of color, use cherry tomatoes, halved, as a garnish. {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. The salt adds flavor to the pasta. 2. Add 8 ounces of fettuccine or spaghetti. Cook until it's al dente. This means it should be firm when you bite it. 3. Drain the pasta in a colander. Don’t forget to reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water. This water helps with the sauce later. 1. In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cream cheese, lime juice, minced garlic, lime zest, and olive oil. 2. Whisk all the ingredients together until you have a smooth and creamy sauce. This is where the magic happens! 1. In the same pot you used for the pasta, mix the drained pasta with the creamy sauce. 2. Stir well so that the pasta gets fully coated. If the sauce feels too thick, slowly add some of the reserved pasta water. This helps reach your desired creaminess. 3. Finally, fold in the fresh cilantro. This adds a bright, fresh flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce. To get the best creamy texture in your pasta, mix the sauce well. I like to use a whisk for this. It helps blend the sour cream, cream cheese, lime juice, and garlic. This ensures every bite is rich and smooth. When you combine the pasta with the sauce, add some reserved pasta water bit by bit. This helps the sauce cling to the pasta. If the sauce feels thick, a little pasta water makes it just right. Balancing lime and cilantro is key. The lime brings a bright taste, while cilantro offers a fresh note. To get this right, start with less lime juice. You can always add more to suit your taste. I also suggest tasting as you go. A pinch of salt can bring out the flavors. If you like spice, a dash of pepper can add warmth without overpowering the dish. For a beautiful plate, twirl the pasta into a nest shape. This looks great and showcases your hard work. You can also sprinkle grated Parmesan on top for extra flavor. For a colorful touch, add halved cherry tomatoes as a garnish. If you want to make it a full meal, serve the pasta with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables. This adds protein and makes the meal more filling. Pro Tips Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh cilantro and limes to enhance the flavor of your dish. Fresh ingredients can make a significant difference in taste. Reserve Pasta Water: Don’t forget to save some pasta water before draining. It’s a great way to adjust the sauce consistency and helps it adhere better to the pasta. Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute half of the sour cream with Greek yogurt. It adds a tangy flavor while keeping it creamy. Add a Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans to the pasta. They pair well with the creamy cilantro lime sauce. {{image_2}} You can switch up the pasta you use for this dish. Fettuccine and spaghetti are great, but why not try penne or linguine? These shapes hold sauce well, making each bite full of flavor. If you need gluten-free options, many brands offer rice or chickpea pasta. These alternatives taste great and work well with the creamy cilantro lime sauce. Want to spice things up? You can add cumin for warmth or jalapeño for heat. Both will give your pasta a fun twist. You can also toss in vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. These add color, crunch, and nutrients to your dish. Just sauté the veggies lightly before mixing them in. They will brighten your pasta and make it even more tasty. If you're looking for vegan options, cashew cream or coconut yogurt works wonders. To make cashew cream, soak raw cashews and blend them until smooth. This creates a rich base for your sauce. Coconut yogurt is another great choice; it adds creaminess and a hint of coconut flavor. Both options keep your pasta creamy without dairy, allowing everyone to enjoy it. To keep your creamy cilantro lime pasta fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps prevent any moisture loss. Make sure to let the pasta cool to room temperature before sealing. It lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. After that, the flavors may fade, and the texture may change. For reheating, use a stovetop or microwave to warm your pasta. If using the stovetop, add a splash of water or olive oil. This will help restore the creaminess. Heat on low to avoid burning. If using a microwave, cover the dish with a damp paper towel. This keeps moisture in. Aim for a temperature of 165°F to ensure it's hot throughout. Yes, you can freeze creamy pasta, but the texture may change when thawed. To freeze, place the pasta in a freezer-safe container. Leave some space for expansion. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, follow the stovetop method, adding a little liquid as needed. You can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. It has a similar tang and creaminess. If you want a dairy-free option, try coconut yogurt. It will add a hint of sweetness. You can also use cashew cream for a nutty flavor. Each option works well in the creamy cilantro lime pasta. Yes, you can prepare many parts of this dish ahead of time. Cook the pasta and let it cool. Store it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. You can also mix the creamy sauce and keep it in the fridge. Just combine them before serving. This saves time on busy nights. Absolutely! Creamy cilantro lime pasta stores well. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to eat, reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or extra lime juice to keep it creamy. This dish tastes great even on the second day! This blog post covered how to make a creamy pasta dish with fresh flavors. We learned about the main and optional ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and practical tips. Remember to adjust the sauce's texture with reserved pasta water for creaminess. Explore variations to suit your taste, whether by changing pasta types or adding spices. Enjoy this dish as a tasty meal or during meal prep. You now have the knowledge to impress with this flavorful recipe.

Creamy Cilantro Lime Pasta

A delicious and creamy pasta dish with fresh cilantro and zesty lime.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
  • 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup lime juice (about 3 limes)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 zest lime
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • to garnish cherry tomatoes, halved

Instructions
 

  • In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine or spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cream cheese, lime juice, minced garlic, lime zest, and olive oil. Mix until smooth and creamy.
  • In the same pot you used for the pasta, combine the drained pasta with the creamy sauce. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, slowly add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  • Fold in the chopped cilantro into the pasta mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Transfer the creamy cilantro lime pasta to serving plates. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with halved cherry tomatoes for a pop of color.

Notes

Add more lime juice for extra tanginess.
Keyword cilantro, creamy, lime, pasta, quick meal

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?