As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to meal prep. That’s why I absolutely adore this Cucumber Pasta Salad. It’s not just a dish; it’s a refreshing escape on a hot summer day. With its crisp cucumbers and creamy dressing, this salad is a quick solution for those hectic afternoons when you want something light yet satisfying. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will impress your loved ones at any gathering. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making it all summer long!
Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Pasta Salad
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Refreshing flavors that scream summer, making it a delightful side dish.
- Versatile and customizable; add your favorite veggies or proteins.
- Great for meal prep; it tastes even better the next day!
- Kid-friendly and a hit with picky eaters, ensuring everyone enjoys it.
Easy Cucumber Pasta Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and easy-to-make cucumber pasta salad perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 english cucumber
- 8 ounces medium pasta (like penne or rotini)
- 1/2 sweet white onion
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons vinegar
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: Combine all dressing ingredients in a small bowl and mix well. Set aside.
- Prepare the Onions: Thinly slice the onion and soak in cold water to mellow the flavor.
- Cook and Cool the Pasta: Cook pasta al dente according to package directions, then cool under cold water and drain.
- Slice the Cucumber: Cut the cucumber in half lengthwise, remove seeds, and slice thinly.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine pasta, onion, cucumber, and dressing. Toss well and let sit for at least 40 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Soaking the onions in cold water helps reduce their sharpness.
- For added flavor, consider including other vegetables or proteins.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing and Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Cucumber Pasta Salad, Easy Salad Recipe, Summer Salad
Ingredients for Cucumber Pasta Salad
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful Cucumber Pasta Salad. Here’s what you’ll need:
- English cucumber: This variety is crisp and has fewer seeds, making it perfect for salads.
- Medium pasta: I love using penne or rotini for their fun shapes that hold the dressing well.
- Sweet white onion: Adds a mild, sweet flavor. Soaking it in cold water helps tone down its sharpness.
- Sour cream: This gives the salad a creamy texture and a tangy taste that balances the flavors.
- Mayonnaise: Adds richness and creaminess. You can use light mayo for a healthier option.
- Sugar: Just a teaspoon to enhance the dressing’s flavor and balance the acidity.
- Salt: Essential for bringing out the flavors in the salad.
- Fresh dill: This herb adds a burst of freshness. If you don’t have fresh, dried dill works too.
- Vinegar: A splash of vinegar adds a tangy kick. I prefer white wine vinegar, but apple cider vinegar is a great substitute.
- Black pepper: A sprinkle to taste, adding a bit of warmth to the dish.
For those who want to get creative, consider adding cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or even grilled chicken for extra flavor and nutrition. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Cucumber Pasta Salad
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delightful Cucumber Pasta Salad. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
Prepare the Dressing
Start by grabbing a small bowl. In it, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, sugar, salt, fresh dill, and vinegar. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. This dressing is the heart of your salad, so make sure it’s well blended. Set it aside for now; it will be ready to bring everything together soon!
Prepare the Onions
Next, take your sweet white onion and thinly slice it. The goal is to get those delicate, paper-thin pieces that will blend beautifully into the salad. Once sliced, place the onion in a bowl of cold water. Soaking it for about 10 minutes will mellow its sharp flavor, making it more enjoyable in your salad.
Cook and Cool the Pasta
Now, let’s move on to the pasta. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add your medium pasta. Cook it according to the package directions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water. This step cools it down quickly and stops the cooking process, ensuring your pasta stays firm and perfect for the salad.
Slice the Cucumber
While the pasta is cooling, grab your English cucumber. Cut it in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds with a spoon. This helps keep your salad from getting watery. Then, slice the cucumber into thin half-moons. The crunchiness of the cucumber will add a refreshing bite to your salad!
Assemble the Salad
It’s time to bring everything together! In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, soaked onions, and sliced cucumbers. Pour the dressing over the top and toss everything gently until well coated. Let the salad sit for at least 40 minutes in the fridge before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite a burst of summer goodness!
Tips for Success
- Always rinse your pasta in cold water to stop the cooking process and keep it firm.
- Let the salad chill for at least 40 minutes; this enhances the flavors.
- Feel free to experiment with herbs like parsley or basil for a different twist.
- For a crunchier texture, add diced bell peppers or radishes.
- Make it a day ahead; it tastes even better the next day!
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining all your ingredients. A salad bowl works great too.
- Small bowl: Perfect for mixing the dressing. Any bowl will do!
- Cutting board and knife: For slicing the cucumber and onion. A sturdy board is key.
- Pot: Needed for boiling the pasta. A medium-sized pot is ideal.
- Colander: To drain the pasta after cooking. A fine mesh strainer can work as an alternative.
Variations To Try
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier salad that packs a protein punch.
- Veggie Medley: Toss in diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or shredded carrots for extra color and crunch.
- Herb Swap: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a unique flavor twist.
- Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle in crumbled feta or shredded cheddar cheese for a creamy, savory addition.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta or spiralized zucchini for a lighter version.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Cucumber Pasta Salad with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
- Serve it alongside crusty bread or garlic knots for a delightful crunch.
- For drinks, consider a chilled white wine or sparkling lemonade to complement the flavors.
- Garnish with extra dill or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.
FAQs about Cucumber Pasta Salad
Can I make Cucumber Pasta Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it in the fridge, and it’ll taste even better the next day!
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt works wonderfully as a substitute for sour cream. It adds creaminess and a tangy flavor!
How long does Cucumber Pasta Salad last in the fridge?
This salad can last up to 3 days in the fridge. Just make sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in your favorite veggies like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even shredded carrots for added color and crunch.
Is this Cucumber Pasta Salad gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply swap out regular pasta for gluten-free pasta or use spiralized zucchini. It’s a delicious alternative!
Final Thoughts
Creating this Cucumber Pasta Salad is more than just whipping up a dish; it’s about bringing joy to your table. The vibrant colors and refreshing flavors make it a perfect companion for summer gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner. I love how it can be customized to fit any palate, making it a hit with my family and friends. Plus, the ease of preparation means I can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the moments that matter. So, grab your ingredients and let this salad be a delightful addition to your culinary adventures!