Healthy Cucumber Pasta Salad Recipe

Introduction

This healthy cucumber pasta salad is a refreshing and light dish perfect for warm days or potlucks. It combines cool cucumber, tender pasta, and a creamy dill dressing for a delightful and easy-to-make meal.

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

1. Step 1: Prepare the dressing by combining sour cream, mayonnaise, sugar, salt, chopped dill, vinegar, and black pepper in a small bowl. Mix well until fully combined and set aside to let the flavors meld.
2. Step 2: Thinly slice the sweet white onion and place the slices in a bowl of cold water. This helps reduce the sharpness of the onion.
3. Step 3: Cook the pasta al dente according to the package instructions. Once cooked, rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and cool the pasta. Drain well and set aside.
4. Step 4: Cut the cucumber in half lengthwise and use a spoon to remove the seeds. Then, slice the cucumber into thin pieces for crunch and freshness.
5. Step 5: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, drained onion slices, and cucumber slices. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
6. Step 6: Let the salad sit for at least 40 minutes before serving. This resting time enhances the flavors and helps the ingredients meld together.

Tips & Variations

• For extra brightness, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the dressing.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter dressing.
• Add chopped cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for more color and flavor.
• Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can be added alongside dill for variety.

Storage

Store the cucumber pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving, and if the dressing thickens, you can thin it slightly with a splash of water or vinegar. This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this salad?

Yes, any medium-sized pasta like fusilli, farfalle, or macaroni works well. Just be sure to cook it al dente and cool completely before mixing.

How can I make this salad vegan?

Substitute the sour cream and mayonnaise with plant-based alternatives such as vegan sour cream and vegan mayo. Ensure the pasta is also egg-free if needed.

Healthy Cucumber Pasta Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 125 reviews

This Healthy Cucumber Pasta Salad is a refreshing, creamy dish perfect for warm days or light meals. Featuring tender pasta, crisp cucumber, and mellow onions tossed in a tangy, dill-infused dressing, this salad balances flavors and textures beautifully. It’s easy to prepare, served chilled, and makes a great side dish or a light lunch option.

• Author: lucas
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 65 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Pasta and Vegetables

• 8 ounces medium pasta (penne or rotini)
• 1 English cucumber
• 1/2 sweet white onion

Dressing

• 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

1. Prepare the Dressing: Combine sour cream, mayonnaise, sugar, salt, chopped fresh dill, vinegar, and black pepper in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly until smooth and set aside to let the flavors meld.
2. Prepare the Onions: Thinly slice the sweet white onion and place the slices in a bowl of cold water. This process mellows the sharpness of the onion. Let them soak while you continue with the next steps.
3. Cook and Cool the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and immediately rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta. Drain well and set aside.
4. Slice the Cucumber: Cut the English cucumber in half lengthwise and use a spoon to remove the seeds from each half. Then slice the cucumber into thin slices for freshness and crunch in the salad.
5. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, drained onion slices, and cucumber slices. Pour the prepared dressing over the mixture and toss gently until everything is well coated.
6. Chill and Serve: Allow the salad to rest in the refrigerator for at least 40 minutes before serving to enhance flavors and create a cohesive dish. Serve chilled.

Notes

• Soaking onions in cold water reduces their pungency, making them milder and more pleasant in salads.
• Removing cucumber seeds helps prevent excess moisture, keeping the salad crisp and not soggy.
• This salad can be customized by adding other fresh herbs or veggies like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra flavor and color.
• For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and mayonnaise.

Keywords: cucumber pasta salad, healthy pasta salad, cucumber salad, creamy pasta salad, summer salad, lunch salad, vegetarian salad