Healthy Cucumber Pasta Salad is a light and refreshing dish that combines crisp cucumbers with tasty pasta. This salad is perfect for a quick lunch, a side dish at a picnic, or even a potluck. Its creamy dressing and fresh ingredients make it not only delicious but also quite nutritious.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make Healthy Cucumber Pasta Salad. It’s quick to prepare, refreshing in taste, and packed with healthy ingredients. Cucumber adds hydration and crunch, while the pasta provides a satisfying base. It’s a great way to enjoy vegetables and can be made in advance, which saves time on busy days. Plus, it caters to different tastes, making it an excellent choice for gatherings.
How to Make Healthy Cucumber Pasta Salad
Making Healthy Cucumber Pasta Salad is easy and requires a few simple steps. Just gather your ingredients, mix them well, and you’re ready to enjoy!
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
Directions
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and let cool.
- While the pasta cools, chop the English cucumber and sweet white onion.
- In a large bowl, mix the sour cream, mayonnaise, sugar, salt, dill, vinegar, and black pepper.
- Add the cooled pasta, cucumber, and onion to the bowl. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
How to Serve Healthy Cucumber Pasta Salad
Healthy Cucumber Pasta Salad is best served cold. You can put it in a large bowl and let guests serve themselves, or you can dish out individual servings. It pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or just on its own as a light meal.
How to Store Healthy Cucumber Pasta Salad
You can store any leftover Healthy Cucumber Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as the dressing may thicken a little after sitting.
Tips to Make Healthy Cucumber Pasta Salad
- Make sure to let the pasta cool completely before mixing it with the other ingredients. This helps to keep the cucumbers crisp.
- You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor.
- If you want a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or mayonnaise.
Variation
If you want to change things up, try adding protein to the salad. Grilled chicken or canned tuna can make it more filling. You can also experiment with different herbs like parsley or basil for a different taste.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta that you like. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary.
Is this salad gluten-free?
You can make this salad gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Absolutely! This salad can be made a day ahead and kept in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve it. The flavors will even get better as it sits.
Healthy Cucumber Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 piece English cucumber Chopped
- 1/2 cup sweet white onion Chopped
Pasta
- 8 ounces medium pasta (like penne or rotini) Cook according to package instructions
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
Preparation
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and let cool.
- While the pasta cools, chop the English cucumber and sweet white onion.
- In a large bowl, mix the sour cream, mayonnaise, sugar, salt, dill, vinegar, and black pepper.
- Add the cooled pasta, cucumber, and onion to the bowl. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.