Description
This Healthy Cucumber Pasta Salad is a light, creamy, and refreshing summer side dish perfect for cookouts, potlucks, or a simple lunch. Made with crisp cucumbers, al dente pasta, and a tangy dill dressing, it’s easy to prep ahead and full of customizable ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 English cucumber: Adds crisp texture and mild flavor
- 8 ounces medium pasta (penne or rotini): Base for holding the creamy dressing
- 1/2 sweet white onion: Adds mild bite and crunch
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Brings tanginess and creaminess
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Adds richness and smooth texture
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances acidity and enhances flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Helps release water from cucumbers and seasons the dish
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped: Adds herbal brightness and aroma
- 2 tablespoons vinegar (white wine or apple cider): Provides tang and acidity
- Black pepper, to taste: Adds depth and mild heat
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, dill, and black pepper until smooth. Set aside.
- Thinly slice the sweet onion and soak in cold water for 10–15 minutes to mellow the flavor. Drain before using.
- Cook pasta al dente according to package instructions. Rinse under cold water, drain, and set aside.
- Cut cucumber in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds with a spoon, and slice thinly. Optionally, salt the slices and let them drain for 30 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine pasta, cucumber, and onion. Pour dressing over the top and toss until evenly coated.
- Cover and chill for at least 40 minutes before serving to allow flavors to develop.
Notes
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or mayo for a lighter version.
- Chickpea or whole wheat pasta can be used for added nutrition.
- Letting the salad sit too long after mixing may cause excess water release from cucumbers.
- For the best flavor, refrigerate before serving.
- Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Bake, Chilled
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 200-250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: healthy cucumber pasta salad, summer pasta salad, creamy cucumber salad, easy pasta salad, dill pasta salad, vegetarian side dish