Cucumber Crunch Pasta Salad

Experience the ultimate summer side with this Cucumber Crunch Pasta Salad. Combining tender shell pasta with crisp English cucumbers and fresh dill, this dish is brought together by a creamy, tangy dressing and a signature pop of everything bagel seasoning. It is a refreshing and effortless addition to any picnic or backyard gathering.

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This salad strikes the perfect balance between the creaminess of sour cream and mayonnaise and the bright acidity of fresh lemon juice. The addition of Dijon mustard and garlic adds a subtle depth that makes every bite satisfyingly flavorful.

Ingredients

• 225 g (8 oz) small shell pasta
• 1 tsp salt (for pasta water)
• 2 cups cucumber, diced (about 1 large English cucumber)
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
• 120 ml (½ cup) sour cream
• 60 ml (¼ cup) mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp ground black pepper
• 1½ tbsp everything bagel seasoning

Instructions

Step 1

Cook the shell pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 3

Add the cooled pasta, diced cucumber, green onions, and fresh dill to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.

Step 4

Sprinkle in the everything bagel seasoning and fold until evenly distributed.

Step 5

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Chill for at least 30 minutes for best flavor before serving.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the best texture, make sure the pasta is completely cooled and drained before adding it to the dressing. Chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes is essential, as it allows the flavors of the dill and garlic to fully develop and permeate the shells.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For those looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt serves as an excellent substitute for sour cream. If you want to increase the crunch, consider folding in half a cup of diced celery or thinly sliced radishes.

Serviervorschläge

This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to two days, making it a great make-ahead option. For a complete meal, pair it with grilled chicken or pieces of smoked salmon to complement the dill and creamy dressing.

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Whether served as a side at a barbecue or enjoyed as a light lunch, this Cucumber Crunch Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleaser that brings a crisp, savory twist to the classic creamy pasta salad format.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this salad actually improves with time. Prepare it up to 2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors develop and meld together beautifully when chilled overnight.

→ What can I substitute for sour cream?

Greek yogurt works wonderfully as a lighter alternative, providing the same creamy texture with added protein. You can also use a combination of both to balance creaminess and tanginess.

→ How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?

Cook the pasta to al dente following package instructions, then immediately rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This ensures it stays tender yet maintains its texture throughout storage.

→ What vegetables pair well as additions?

Diced celery or radishes add extra crunch and freshness. Cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or shredded carrots also complement the cool, creamy base beautifully without overpowering the dill flavor.

→ Is there a gluten-free option?

Absolutely. Substitute the pasta with gluten-free shell pasta or chickpea pasta, which maintain similar texture and cooking times. The rest of the ingredients remain the same, keeping all the flavors intact.

→ What proteins pair well with this salad?

Grilled chicken breast, smoked salmon, or poached shrimp complement this salad perfectly. For a vegetarian angle, add chickpeas or white beans for heartier protein content.