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Cucumber Pasta Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 92 reviews

A refreshing and light cucumber pasta salad featuring tender cooked pasta tossed with crisp cucumbers and a flavorful dressing, perfect for a quick lunch or a side dish at summer gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 ounces pasta (such as penne or rotini)

Cucumbers

  • 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced

Dressing

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons white vinegar or lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey or sugar
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it for the salad.
  2. Prepare the cucumbers: While the pasta cooks, thinly slice the cucumbers. You may peel them if desired, but keeping the skin adds texture and nutrients.
  3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white vinegar or lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, pepper, and minced garlic if using. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
  4. Toss the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, sliced cucumbers, and dressing. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Sprinkle fresh dill on top if using for added flavor.
  5. Chill and serve: Refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled as a side dish or light meal.

Notes

  • Use pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or farfalle that hold dressing well.
  • For a creamier salad, add a dollop of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise to the dressing.
  • Add chopped red onions or cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor.
  • The salad keeps well for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
  • Feel free to substitute fresh herbs like parsley or basil for dill.

Keywords: cucumber pasta salad, summer salad, easy pasta salad, vegetarian pasta salad, cucumber recipes, picnic salad

Find it online: https://familyfavplates.com/cucumber-pasta-salad-recipe/